Code Red Air Quality Alert issued for Accomack and Northampton Counties

A Code Red Air Quality Alert is in effect for Accomack and Northampton counties until midnight tonight.

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality issued the alert for fine particulates, with air quality expected to reach unhealthy levels across the Virginia Eastern Shore and other parts of the state.

A Code Red alert means everyone should avoid prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion. People with heart or respiratory conditions may experience more serious health effects and should take extra precautions.

The alert includes communities across both counties, including Chincoteague, Wallops Island, Melfa, Exmore, Cape Charles, Kiptopeke, Fisherman Island and surrounding areas.

Fine particulate pollution can irritate the lungs and worsen breathing problems, especially for children, older adults, outdoor workers and people with asthma, COPD or heart disease.

Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed when possible, and monitor local air quality conditions through the Virginia DEQ air quality forecast website.