Old North News

Smoke from wildfires in Polk County has resulted in unhealthy air quality levels, prompting residents to take necessary precautions. The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) issued a Code Red air quality action day alert for Polk County. According to the DAQ, "Code Red means prolonged exposure to the air may be unhealthy for anyone." Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, especially those sensitive to air pollution, such as children, older adults, and people with asthma.

Rutherford County is also affected by smoke but under a Code Orange alert. This level indicates that air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups. These individuals should minimize extended or strenuous outdoor activities during this period.

The alerts will remain active until midnight Saturday night. DAQ meteorologists will monitor conditions and might adjust or extend the alerts as needed over the weekend. For updates on air quality conditions, residents can visit the Air Quality Portal where daily forecasts are posted by 3 p.m.

Satellite images have detected significant smoke from fires named Fish Hook, Black Cove, and Deep Woods in Polk County. There is an observed increase in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) affecting visibility and posing health risks due to its ability to penetrate deep into lungs and aggravate respiratory issues.

State law prohibits open burning of yard waste or land clearing debris on days when Code Orange or higher alerts are issued. Violations can be reported to the respective DAQ regional office. Additionally, a burn ban has been enacted across North Carolina by the N.C. Forest Service.

For non-English speakers requiring information about these conditions in Spanish or other languages, assistance is available via phone at 919-707-8446 or email Shawn.Taylor@deq.nc.gov.