BUCKHANNON — The City of Buckhannon is advising residents to limit their outdoor activities due to poor air quality affecting the region on Wednesday.

“Parts of the United States are smothered by smoke from the Canadian wildfires today, including our own area throughout Buckhannon and parts of Upshur County,” reads a public service announcement from the city. “The public is being advised to limit their time outdoors while we are affected.”

According to the map on airnow.gov, Upshur County bordered on the “Very Unhealthy” air quality level, indicating increased health risks for everyone.

Per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), citizens in areas with poor air quality are encouraged to limit their time outdoors and avoid strenuous activities. N-95 masks can help reduce smoke inhalation and potential health risks.

Click here for information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on protecting yourself from wildfire smoke.