Air Quality Orange has been issued for 3 counties in North Carolina, including Wayne

RALEIGH, NC (WNCN) – The North Carolina Division of Air Quality has issued an Air Quality Orange Code for Wayne, Duplin and Lenoir counties.

An orange air quality code means that the air quality is unhealthy for sensitive populations.

Smoke from a prescribed burn in Duplin County that closed US-117 near Magnolia has created poor air quality in the area. Smoke also reduced visibility in Goldsboro and Cannonsville.

Also, light winds and an inversion where temperatures increase with height rather than decrease with height can keep fine particles in place or possibly increase overnight.

Although a small amount of smoke and fine particles may remain in the air on Wednesday, no new air quality code orange is expected to be issued.

To avoid adverse reactions to poor air quality, stay indoors with windows closed and run a filter if possible. If you do have to be outside, wear a face mask and limit your time outdoors.