Code Orange Air Quality Alert Issued for Susquehanna Valley

Vulnerable groups urged to limit outdoor activities due to rising pollution levels

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has declared a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for fine particulate matter across the Susquehanna Valley, affecting Dauphin, Cumberland, Lebanon, Lancaster and York counties. State officials said a strong morning temperature inversion and calm winds are pushing PM2.5 levels higher than normal, with the sharpest increases expected in the Lancaster area.

Why it matters

Air quality alerts are important to protect public health, especially for sensitive groups like children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions. Elevated particulate matter levels can exacerbate asthma and other lung diseases, leading to increased hospital visits and missed work/school.

The details

The Code Orange designation means air quality may be unhealthy for sensitive groups. DEP advises those individuals to limit strenuous outdoor activity. Residents can monitor local conditions at airnow.gov. The department urged residents and businesses to help reduce particulate pollution by cutting back on wood-burning, avoiding open burning, and limiting use of gas-powered lawn equipment.

  • The air quality alert was issued on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

The state agency responsible for monitoring and regulating air quality in Pennsylvania.

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The takeaway

This air quality alert highlights the importance of being aware of local pollution levels, especially for vulnerable populations. By taking steps to reduce emissions, individuals and businesses can help improve air quality and protect public health.