Montgomery County issues Code Purple air quality day; parks and trails closed Friday, July 17
Air quality is VERY UNHEALTHY countywide from wildfire smoke; residents should limit outdoor activity, keep pets indoors, and seek cooler, cleaner air if needed.
Montgomery County has declared a Code Purple Air Quality Action Day for Friday, July 17; all county parks and trails will be closed to the public. The alert reflects VERY UNHEALTHY levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke — everyone should limit outdoor activity, sensitive groups should avoid outdoor exertion, and pets should be kept indoors when possible. Use indoor recirculation or high-efficiency filters if available, find cooling centers via 211 if needed, note that N95 masks can offer some protection (surgical/cloth masks will not), check current conditions on AirNow, and seek emergency care or call 911 for severe breathing or chest symptoms.