North Raleigh Today

Smoke from wildfires in South Carolina is expected to affect air quality in western North Carolina, according to the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ). Transylvania County is predicted to experience "Code Purple" air quality on Thursday, indicating very unhealthy conditions. Nearby Henderson, Swain, and Polk counties are forecasted for "Code Red," while Rutherford County is expected to see "Code Orange" levels.

These alerts will begin at midnight tonight and last until midnight Thursday night, although they may be updated as needed. Residents can find the latest information on air quality through the Air Quality Portal.

The DAQ advises that during Code Purple conditions, the general public should avoid prolonged outdoor activities. Sensitive groups such as children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or heart conditions are advised against all outdoor physical activity.

For Code Red conditions, prolonged exposure could be harmful to anyone. All residents should consider reducing heavy exertion outdoors and take frequent breaks. Sensitive individuals should avoid long outdoor activities.

Code Orange signifies potential health impacts for sensitive groups who are encouraged to limit extended outdoor exertion and watch for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.

The Table Rock fire in South Carolina is generating significant smoke that may drift into North Carolina by Thursday and Friday. Additional wildfires in western North Carolina continue to contribute smoke locally.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter known as PM2.5 which can penetrate deep into the lungs and exacerbate asthma or other lung issues and have links to heart problems.

DEQ’s website offers resources on how to stay safe from wildfire smoke. State law prohibits open burning of yard waste or land clearing debris on Air Quality Action Days rated Code Orange or higher. Violations can be reported to the local DAQ regional office. The N.C. Forest Service has also issued a burn ban across all of North Carolina.

Spanish speakers or those needing translations can contact 919-707-8446 or email Shawn.Taylor@deq.nc.gov for more information about the Air Quality Index available from the EPA.