Smoke from wildfires blankets region amid lingering air quality concerns

Air quality measures reached "very unhealthy" levels across the Baltimore metropolitan region and beyond on Thursday morning as smoke from wildfires in Canada continued to move through the area.

Air quality monitors in Central Maryland recorded readings in excess of 200, indicating significantly elevated levels of airborne particular matter. Above 200, the risk of health effects is increased for everyone, according to information published on airnow.gov.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wildfire smoke can cause serious health complications, especially for older adults, pregnant women, children and people with preexisting respiratory and heart and lung conditions.

Johns Hopkins University experts will discuss air quality concerns stemming from wildfires during a live virtual briefing on Friday beginning at 11 a.m. Advance registration is encouraged but not required.

The smoky air and air-quality conditions are expected to improve on Friday.