SOUTHERN MARYLAND — A Code Orange Air Quality Alert is in effect Thursday, July 16, 2026, for Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties, while poor air quality is also affecting several surrounding areas across Maryland and the Washington region.
The Maryland Department of the Environment issued the Southern Maryland alert Wednesday afternoon, with the National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington office relaying the notice at approximately 4:40 p.m.
Additional Code Orange alerts were issued for Prince George’s County, the Maryland suburbs of Washington, the Baltimore and Annapolis region, portions of northeast Maryland and the District of Columbia.
A Code Orange designation means air pollution concentrations may become unhealthy for sensitive groups, including children, older adults and people with asthma, heart disease or other lung conditions.
People in those groups are encouraged to reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity, take additional breaks and move exercise indoors when possible.
The National Weather Service reported that smoke from wildfires in western Ontario was contributing to hazy conditions and worsening air quality across the region. Poor air quality could continue into Friday.
The Air Quality Index uses color-coded categories to communicate pollution levels and possible health effects. Code Orange indicates conditions that are unhealthy for sensitive groups, although most members of the general public are less likely to experience effects.
Ground-level ozone and fine-particle pollution are among the pollutants commonly associated with poor-air-quality days. Maryland operates monitoring stations across the state and publishes frequently updated air-quality maps and forecasts.
Residents can reduce exposure by limiting strenuous outdoor activity, keeping necessary medications nearby and watching for symptoms such as coughing, chest discomfort, shortness of breath or unusual fatigue.
Air-quality conditions may vary by location and change throughout the day. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated readings and forecasts through the Maryland Department of the Environment and AirNow.
For the latest Southern Maryland weather alerts and updates, visit TheBayNet.com/weather/.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
