Maryland Air Quality to Deteriorate Temporarily Due to Ozone and Wildfire Smoke

Maryland residents are advised to take precautions on Thursday as air quality across much of the state is expected to deteriorate, with ozone levels reaching the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category and light wildfire smoke from New Jersey impacting visibility and breathing conditions. State officials forecast a return to healthier air by Friday, aided by a change in weather patterns.

According to the Maryland Department of the Environment, a wildfire burning in Ocean County, New Jersey, is sending smoke across state lines. As daytime mixing lifts smoke from higher altitudes to the surface, Maryland is expected to experience light but noticeable smoke concentrations during the early afternoon hours. Although fine particulate matter (PM2.5) will remain in the “Moderate” range over a 24-hour period, individuals particularly sensitive to air pollution are encouraged to limit strenuous outdoor activity during the midday hours.

Simultaneously, abundant sunshine and warmer-than-average temperatures will facilitate ozone formation. Ozone levels are expected to rise into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category for large portions of Maryland, including Washington County, Frederick County, and areas across Central and Northern Maryland. In contrast, the rest of the state—including Southern Maryland, the Lower Eastern Shore, and parts of Western Maryland—will remain in the “Moderate” range for air quality.

Forecasts indicate a significant improvement in air quality beginning Friday, as a southerly airflow clears lingering smoke from the region. A developing low-pressure system and an approaching weather front are expected to increase cloud cover and introduce cleaner air, bringing both ozone and fine particulate levels back into the “Good” category statewide. Spotty showers and thunderstorms associated with the frontal system are anticipated on Saturday, further contributing to the expected improvement in air conditions.

MDE provides air quality forecasts throughout the year, covering ten regions in Maryland. These include daily assessments for fine particle pollution and seasonal evaluations of ground-level ozone from April through September. The forecasts are produced in collaboration with regional partners, including the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, the DC Department of Energy and Environment, and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the Maryland Department of the Environment

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