Folks in parts of SC told to shut their windows and doors. Here’s where and why
Three counties in the Midlands and one in the Upstate are under an air quality alert today because of controlled burning, according to the National Weather Service.
The code orange air quality alert for fine particulates was issued for Wednesday for the following counties:
- Aiken
- Barnwell
- Edgefield
- McCormick
A code orange air quality alert means that concentrations of fine particulates in the designated areas may approach or exceed unhealthy standards for people sensitive to such pollution.
Why was the alert issued?
A NWS post states there is high pressure over the Southeast that “will continue to dominate the region and minimize smoke dispersion from numerous controlled burns in South Carolina and Georgia. Stable conditions and very little wind will enhance the noticeability of smoke, especially in the overnight and morning hours.”
What to do
The S.C. Department of Environmental Services recommends that people with respiratory health issues limit time spent outdoors and/or move all activities inside to avoid the smoke or fine particulates. Also, keep windows and doors closed and run an air conditioner, but keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean.
