PM 2.5
Coverage of PM 2.5 in the Nexus archive.
- A federal judge upheld stricter air quality standards. Here’s what it means for Harris County
A federal judge upheld stricter air quality standards, requiring the EPA to enforce tighter limits on PM 2.5. PM 2.5 refers to fine particulate matter like dust, smoke, and soot, which poses health risks.
- Do masks protect me from wildfire smoke? Experts say yes — with some caveats
Health officials recommend wearing N95 masks to protect against dangerous PM 2.5 particles from wildfire smoke affecting the Philadelphia region. The air quality alert warns of risks to all populations, with vulnerable groups urged to take extra precautions.
- Residents warned to stay indoors as Canadian wildfire smoke hits Philadelphia region
Philadelphia residents faced hazy skies and health warnings due to Canadian wildfire smoke, leading to a Code Red Air Quality Action Day in Pennsylvania. The smoke contains PM 2.5 particles, which pose respiratory and cardiovascular risks, particularly for vulnerable groups. Over 180 wildfires in Canada and some in Minnesota are contributing to the pollution.