"Canadian Wildfire Smoke Triggers Code Orange Air Quality Alert in Metro Atlanta"

A Code Orange Alert was issued for parts of Georgia, including metro Atlanta, due to the lingering smoke from Canadian wildfires, causing unhealthy air quality conditions. The Air Quality Index (AQI) reached levels between orange and red, indicating risks for sensitive groups such as older adults, children, and those with lung and heart disease. The haze and heat make it challenging to be outdoors, and people are advised to limit outdoor activities. The smoke particulates can cause short-term respiratory problems and long-term effects on the lungs and heart. Relief from the smoke is not immediate, as wildfires in Canada are expected to continue producing smoke throughout the summer. Climate change and rising temperatures contribute to the increased frequency of such air quality alerts.