"Code Red Air Quality: Smoke from Wildfires Blankets Midwest and Prompts Concerns"

The Washington, D.C. area is experiencing code red "unhealthy" air quality due to smoke from Canadian wildfires, posing a health risk to residents. The air quality alert advises people, especially those in sensitive groups, to stay indoors and engage in less strenuous activities. The smoke is expected to persist, affecting visibility and causing respiratory issues. The warming planet is predicted to lead to more intense and smoky fires. Measures to protect oneself include staying indoors, using air filters, and wearing respirators when outside. The air quality index (AQI) ranges from good (green) to unhealthy (code red), with higher AQI indicating more pollution.