CODE ORANGE: Heat, stagnant air prompt air quality alert

Thanks to a large area of high pressure parked over the southeast, this will keep the air stagnant with light wind expected through the day.

A Code Orange Air Quality Alert has been issued for the Charlotte metro area and surrounding counties through the afternoon and early evening hours on Thursday.

A Code Orange alert happens when ground-level ozone approaches or goes above levels that are considered unhealthy. High pressure builds and acts like a dome leading to stagnant air and lower rain chances.

The high temperatures for the next several days will also allow ozone levels to climb.

Code Orange air quality conditions are unhealthy for those with sensitive respiratory or breathing issues. You should limit time outdoors today, especially during the afternoon hours.

Air quality issues will likely continue through the rest of the work week. Highs will be a degree or two warmer for Friday afternoon, reaching the upper 90s in many neighborhoods.

Humidity levels will still stay high, with the heat index climbing to the triple digits during the afternoon hours.

Conditions will improve by the weekend as our ridge of high pressure slowly pushes out of the area. Highs will still stay in the mid-90s, but an increase in storms, less cars on the roadways, and a slight increase in wind speed will help keep the atmosphere mixed out.

Weather resources:

• Track the rain with WSOC-TV weather app
• Explore the interactive radar

Cox Media Group