Washington, D.C. briefly recorded the worst air quality among major cities worldwide following an extensive Independence Day fireworks display, according to global air quality monitoring platform IQAir.
The dramatic decline in air quality came after a 40-minute fireworks show held as part of the United States’ 250th Independence Day celebrations. By Sunday evening, Washington’s air quality had improved, with the city falling to 26th place in IQAir’s global rankings.
‘Code Red’ air quality alert issued
City authorities declared a Code Red air quality alert, warning that pollution levels had reached a point where the air was considered unhealthy for everyone, particularly children, older adults and people with existing medical conditions. Residents were advised to avoid prolonged outdoor activity, while officials cautioned that even healthy individuals could experience adverse health effects.
Ahead of the celebrations, physician Kisha Davis warned that the combination of extreme heat and fireworks-related pollution could significantly increase health risks.
“The air quality today is like running a marathon while smoking a cigarette,” she told CNN, adding that the fireworks would further worsen pollution levels.
Hundreds receive medical attention
Emergency services treated hundreds of people during the Independence Day celebrations.
The DC Fire and EMS Department reported 96 patient contacts, with 40 people transported to hospitals. George Washington University Hospital recorded 289 patient contacts, while the United States Department of Health and Human Services reported 314 patient contacts. Authorities have not confirmed how many of these cases were directly linked to extreme heat or deteriorating air quality.
The fireworks display, organised by Freedom 250, featured approximately 850,000 fireworks launched from 10 locations across the National Mall, barges on the Potomac River and West Potomac Park. Organisers said the event was expected to challenge the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest fireworks display, although no official confirmation had been issued by Sunday.
