The Environmental Protection Agency’s air quality index showed Louisville, Lexington, northern Kentucky and Owensboro with an “unhealthy” level of airborne pollution on Wednesday.
The Kentucky Energy and Environmental Cabinet requested an air quality alert for the entire state, set to last until at least midnight Thursday.
Air quality is forecast to be Unhealthy for all groups on Wednesday. An air quality alert has been issued. Limit prolonged or intense outdoor activity. Live conditions available 24/7: https://t.co/vPrn1S4AAG #AirQuality #kywx #inwx #lmwx #Louisville #pollution pic.twitter.com/YR7wo3bkeK
— Louisville Air Pollution Control (@LouAPCD) June 28, 2023
According to the National Weather Service, “everyone” may experience negative health effects from the event, but sensitive groups are especially at risk.
“Sensitive groups include the elderly … children … persons with asthma or other breathing problems … and persons with lung and heart disease. People in these groups are advised to greatly limit their outdoor activities to reduce their exposure to ozone and particulate pollution,” the NWS alert stated.
Sensitive groups include pregnant people, children, the elderly and people with conditions like respiratory illnesses.
Smoke has drifted over much of the northern United States and even Europe as at least 490 fires continue to burn across Canada, with more than 250 considered “out of control.” Cities like Chicago, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Cincinnati also currently have "unhealthy” air quality according to the EPA.
