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Washington Tops Pollution Rankings After July 4 Fireworks

7/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Washington topped rankings as the most polluted city for a few hours after July 4 fireworks.
The EPA said it does not issue permits for the event and declined air-quality guidance.
Fine particulate matter rose above 200 µg/m³, over the 35 µg standard, triggering Code Purple alerts in D.C., Virginia, Maryland.
Heavy rain on July 5 cleared the smoke, prompting a scientist to say the city “dodged a bullet” and leaving Guinness awaiting proof.

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Story summary

Washington topped rankings as the most polluted city for a few hours after July 4 fireworks.
The EPA said it does not issue permits for the event and declined air-quality guidance.
Fine particulate matter rose above 200 µg/m³, over the 35 µg standard, triggering Code Purple alerts in D.C., Virginia, Maryland.
Heavy rain on July 5 cleared the smoke, prompting a scientist to say the city “dodged a bullet” and leaving Guinness awaiting proof.