KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. — The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation issued a code orange in air quality for Knoxville and other cities in Tennessee for Thursday, Aug. 29.
Other cities that have the air quality alert are Nashville, Chattanooga and the Great Smoky Mountains. According to TDEC, the high-pressure system over Tennessee will continue into Thursday bringing hot and dry weather conditions.
So, what is Code Orange?
There are six levels of concern for ozone and particle pollution, which range from good to hazardous.
Orange is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Members of sensitive groups may experience health, while the general public is less likely to be affected. The following people are asked to choose less strenuous activities or shorten the amount of time they spend outside:
- People with lung diseases, such as asthma
- Children and older adults
- People who are active outdoors
While the forecast is orange, there may be times during the day when air quality is okay for outdoor activities. According to AirNow, ozone is often lower in the morning.
TDEC said they expect relief by Friday with increasing humidity and cloud cover expected across the state. They will continue to monitor weather patterns and hourly ozone levels throughout the region and issue additional alerts as needed.
