July 4th Fireworks Impact Washington’s Air Quality

The concentration of fine particulate matter in Washington, D.C., rose to levels common during previous Independence Day celebrations. However, these levels persisted until Sunday morning, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data indicated.

Smoke enveloped fireworks despite rain during the July Fourth holiday in Washington. This view from Arlington, Virginia, captured the event. (Eric Lee/Reuters)

Air quality in the nation’s capital remained unhealthy for over 10 hours following the 40-minute fireworks display over the National Mall. Information from AirNow, a website operated by the EPA, showed air quality measurements collected from physical sensors in the area.