HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection declared a Code Red Air Quality Action Day for fine particulate matter throughout the commonwealth of Pennsylvania on Wednesday.

Smoke due to wildfires in eastern Canada will likely contribute to daily average concentrations of fine particulate matter in the Code Red range with areas farther east experiencing worse air quality, possibly into Code Purple ranges.

Consult airnow.gov for current conditions in your area.

For areas in Code Purple, all residents should limit outdoor exertion, and sensitive populations should avoid all outdoor exertion. Residents are encouraged to limit their time outdoors but do not need to shelter in place. Pets and other animals should be kept indoors.

The weather pattern pushing the smoke from wildfires in eastern Quebec is forecast to continue until Friday for most of Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania DEP will continue to update the forecast to determine ongoing needs for Air Quality Alerts.

Teams are encouraged to use their best judgment but it may be advisable to postpone any soccer activities again for this evening. Check with your county officials for further guidance. 

Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer officials are monitoring the situation in regards to the Challenge Cup and NCS State Cup finals scheduled for HillTop Complex in Royersford on Saturday. 

Officials here are also in contact with other state associations in the region regarding the ODP East Regional Tournament scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Hammonton, N.J. and Saturday and Sunday in Lancaster County, PA.