Smoke Alert: D.C. Air Quality Crisis | Washington DC News

Washington DC News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 17, 2026 · 1m

Smoke from Canadian wildfires is blanketing the D.C. region with hazardous air, triggering code red and even code purple alerts — making it unsafe to breathe for everyone, not just those with health conditions. Areas like Loudoun and Fairfax are especially affected, with air quality deteriorating fast and potentially worsening throughout the day. In response, Alexandria has shut down all outdoor pools, and summer camps and other outdoor activities are moving indoors. Under code purple, all residents — even healthy ones — should limit strenuous outdoor activity; kids, seniors, and those with…