Overview

• The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection issued the alert for Thursday, with the National Weather Service noting it runs until 4 p.m.
• Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Washington, and Westmoreland counties are included, along with higher-elevation ridges in Westmoreland and Fayette.
• A Code Orange means pollution levels may be unhealthy for children, older adults, and people with asthma or heart and lung disease, who should avoid extended outdoor activity.
• Guidance includes cutting back on driving and gas-powered equipment, refraining from open burning, and monitoring official updates such as NOAA Weather Radio.
• Forecasters cite an 11-day dry spell with highs near the mid-80s, only slim shower chances Friday, and a better but modest rain chance Monday into Tuesday that is unlikely to ease drought or air-quality concerns.