News

Air quality worsens to Code Purple

By Lightning Reports, Published: March 27, 2025

Henderson County is experiencing unhealthy air quality due to heavy smoke from the ongoing wildfires, the Henderson County Department of Public Health said in an alert urging residents to stay informed and monitor air quality updates.

A Code Purple indicates “very unhealthy” conditions. Under these conditions everyone should avoid outdoor exertion.

Heavy smoke can be dangerous for everyone’s health. Please follow these health and safety recommendations:

• Stay indoors as much as possible and use an air filtration system if available.
• Keep windows and doors closed to reduce indoor smoke exposure.
• In vehicles, set air conditioning to “re-circulate” mode.
• Avoid outdoor activities, particularly exercise or strenuous work.
• If going outside is necessary, wear an N95 respirator mask to help filter harmful particles. Cloth masks are ineffective against fine particulate matter. Please check with retailers on N95 supply.
• Stay hydrated and monitor for symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest pain. Seek medical care immediately if symptoms become severe.

For more information on air quality forecasts, visit https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/air-quality/outreach-education-engagement/air-quality-forecasts. For more information on Henderson County’s response to the wildfires, visit https://www.hendersoncountync.gov/em/page/henderson-county-emergency