Lancaster County under Code Orange air quality alert – LancasterOnline

Air Quality and Heat Wave Advisory in Lancaster County

Code Orange Air Quality Day Declaration

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has declared a Code Orange Air Quality Day affecting Lancaster County and surrounding areas. This advisory is in effect until 8 p.m. today and includes the counties of Berks, Bucks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Lebanon, Lehigh, Philadelphia, and York.

Vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions including asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis are particularly at risk during this alert.

Recommendations to Reduce Air Pollution

In alignment with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, the DEP urges residents and businesses to take voluntary actions to mitigate ozone air pollution. Recommended measures include:

• Reducing car usage by carpooling or utilizing public transportation
• Combining errands to minimize vehicle trips
• Limiting engine idling
• Refueling vehicles after dusk to reduce emissions
• Conserving electricity by setting air conditioning to a higher temperature and turning off unused lights

Extreme Heat Forecast and Health Implications

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning for dangerously high temperatures from 11 a.m. Sunday through 8 p.m. Wednesday. The heat index, which factors in relative humidity and air temperature, is expected to reach between 105 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

This heat wave, defined as three or more consecutive days with temperatures at or above 90 degrees, marks the first such event in Lancaster County for 2025. Temperatures are anticipated to soar into the mid to upper 90s.

Community Response and Support

To address the challenges posed by extreme heat and poor air quality, local senior centers have extended their hours to provide relief and support to vulnerable populations, contributing to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by enhancing community resilience.

Energy Consumption and Economic Considerations

With increased use of air conditioning during the heat wave, residents are advised to prepare for higher energy bills. This highlights the importance of energy efficiency and sustainable consumption patterns, supporting SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.

Summary of Key Actions for Residents

1. Limit outdoor activities during Code Orange Air Quality Days to protect health.
2. Adopt transportation habits that reduce emissions.
3. Stay hydrated and seek cool environments during the heat wave.
4. Utilize community resources such as extended senior center hours.
5. Practice energy conservation to manage increased cooling demands.

Conclusion

The current environmental conditions in Lancaster County underscore the interconnectedness of public health, environmental sustainability, and community well-being. Adhering to recommended guidelines contributes to achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses the health impacts of poor air quality and extreme heat, especially on vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, and people with respiratory problems.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The article mentions efforts to reduce air pollution through community actions such as carpooling, using public transportation, and conserving electricity.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • The article highlights extreme heat events and air quality alerts, which are related to climate change and its effects on the environment and human health.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels
   • The article refers to a “Code Orange Air Quality Day” declared by the Department of Environmental Protection, which is an indicator of ozone pollution levels and air quality status.
2. Heat Index Measurements
   • The article mentions the heat index reaching between 105 and 110 degrees, which measures the combined effect of temperature and humidity on human health.
3. Number of Heat Wave Days
   • The article defines a heat wave as three or more consecutive days with temperatures reaching at least 90 degrees, which can be tracked as an indicator of extreme heat events.
4. Behavioral Indicators
   • Encouragements to reduce vehicle trips, limit engine idling, and conserve electricity imply monitoring of community engagement and adoption of sustainable practices.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: lancasteronline.com