For the second day in a row, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division relayed a Code Orange air quality alert to the National Weather Service for metro Atlanta.  The alert is for Wednesday, June 26.

The National Weather Service urges caution for sensitive groups, including “Children, people who are sensitive to ozone, and people with heart or lung disease. “Those people should avoid strenuous outdoor activities this afternoon.

What is in the alert?

The alert gives the following information:

…CODE ORANGE AIR QUALITY ALERT IS IN EFFECT FOR ATLANTA FOR

Wednesday June 26…

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental

Protection Division has issued a Code Orange (Unhealthy for

sensitive groups) Air Quality Alert for Atlanta for

Wednesday June 26.

Under Code Orange conditions, the outdoor air quality is likely to

be unhealthy for some people.  Children, people who are sensitive

to ozone, and people with heart or lung disease should limit

prolonged outdoor exertion during the late afternoon or early

evening when ozone concentrations are highest.

What is a Code Orange condition?

A Code Orange Air Quality Alert indicates unhealthy air quality for sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions. This alert signifies that the Air Quality Index (AQI) is between 101 and 150. While the general population may not be affected, those in sensitive groups may experience health effects and should limit prolonged outdoor exertion. Sources of pollution contributing to a Code Orange Alert include vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and weather conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground. People are advised to reduce outdoor activities and follow local air quality guidelines.

About the National Weather Service

The National Weather Service (NWS) is a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The NWS describes its role as follows:

The National Weather Service (NWS) provides weather, water, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters and ocean areas, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the national economy. These services include Forecasts and Observations, Warnings, Impact-based Decision Support Services, and Education in an effort to build a Weather-Ready Nation. The ultimate goal is to have a society that is prepared for and responds to weather, water and climate events.

Read all the Cobb County Courier climate and weather coverage by following this link.