Story perspectives

Maryland Declares Code Purple Air Alert, Shuts Pools, Advises Masks.

7/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Governor Wes Moore declared a Code Purple air-quality alert for Maryland on July 17, 2026, a “very unhealthy” level.
Baltimore City Recreation and Parks closed pools, cancelled programs, and suspended trash collection.
The Maryland Department of the Environment advised residents to keep windows closed, run AC recirculation, and wear N95 or KN95 masks outdoors.
Old Westminster Winery and Horizon Day Camp postponed events and moved activities indoors because of hazardous smoke.

1 of 1

Story summary

Governor Wes Moore declared a Code Purple air-quality alert for Maryland on July 17, 2026, a “very unhealthy” level.
Baltimore City Recreation and Parks closed pools, cancelled programs, and suspended trash collection.
The Maryland Department of the Environment advised residents to keep windows closed, run AC recirculation, and wear N95 or KN95 masks outdoors.
Old Westminster Winery and Horizon Day Camp postponed events and moved activities indoors because of hazardous smoke.