Montgomery County officials have issued a Code Purple Air Quality Alert for Friday, July 17, 2026, as smoke from wildfires in Canada continues to impact the region.
A Code Purple alert means the air quality is unhealthy for everyone, not just sensitive groups. Residents are encouraged to temporarily reduce or avoid prolonged outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercise, until air quality improves.
As of 9am, the Air Quality Index (AQI) measured 235, placing conditions in the “Very Unhealthy” category due to elevated levels of PM2.5, fine particulate matter associated with wildfire smoke. The code Purple encompasses most of the state of Maryland and Northern Virginia
Officials recommend staying indoors as much as possible, keeping windows closed, and using air conditioning or air filtration if available.
