DC Air Quality Alert: Code Orange Issued During High Heat

Code orange means the air could be unhealthy for sensitive groups including children, the elderly and people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases

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An air quality alert is in effect in the Washington, D.C., area Wednesday, and sensitive groups are warned to limit time outside.

The National Weather Service downgraded the D.C. area's air quality index to code orange Wednesday. Pollution coupled with high heat could affect sensitive groups including children, senior citizens and people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases.

The heat index reached 100° in many locations around the area amid high humidity and temperatures in the low to mid-90s.

The air quality alert covers both the D.C. and Baltimore metro areas; here's a full list of weather alerts.

You may notice the low air quality. But the general public is not likely to be strongly affected, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) said.

Staying inside when possible is the best way to avoid pollution, MWCOG said.

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for part of Loudoun, Fairfax and Prince William counties in Virginia.

Storm Team4 says a few isolated showers and storms will move through tonight evening.

The D.C. area will stay hot and humid this week, with temps in the 90s expected at least through Saturday.

Stay with Storm Team4 for the latest forecast.

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