Holiday Fireworks Cancel Air Quality Gains Across U.S.

Southern California and other major cities experienced a severe decline in air quality over the Independence Day weekend due to fireworks and wildfire smoke.
Air pollution monitors recorded hazardous levels of fine particulate matter and metal pollutants, according to reports.
The smoke and haze is expected to linger for days as weather conditions prevent the pollutants from dispersing quickly.
Health officials are warning vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activities and use air purifiers.
The decline in air quality highlights the need for more regulations on fireworks to curb pollution and protect public health, experts argue.