Trump firework plans trigger emergency air pollution warning across the D.C. area: report

Trump's plans for a massive fireworks display on July 4 triggered an emergency air pollution warning, according to a new report.According to MeidasTouch News, an emergency warning went out across Northern Virginia alerting the public about health impacts from Trump's upcoming fireworks show for the 250th anniversary of the United States.An estimated 880,000 fireworks shells are expected to be launched in the air in Washington, D.C., MeidasTouch reported, comparing that to the 20,000 shells normally used for Independence Day celebrations in the nation's capital. Trump is reportedly trying to break a Guinness World Record with the display. The huge scale of fireworks is expected to let off large amounts of smoke, particulate matter, and heavy metal pollutants, according to MeidasTouch. Officials are reportedly concerned about exposure to both heavy metal particulate matter released by fireworks and carbon-based smoke particles, MeidasTouch noted.The Northern Virginia emergency bulletin warned that the air pollution will create unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups, including children, older adults, and individuals with heart or lung disease, MeidasTouch wrote. It also cited data showing significant increases in cardiovascular and respiratory emergency cases following this kind of event.MeidasTouch wrote, Healthcare facilities are reportedly being advised to prepare for elevated cardiopulmonary patient volumes during the two weeks following the celebration.The bulletin's warning is based on the Environmental Protection Agency's own air quality index (AQI), which is on a 0-500 scale. According to MeidasTouch, the air pollution close to the center of the firework smoke is projected to go above 500 AQI. Workers near the National Mall are being advised to wear N95 respirator masks, according to MeidasTouch.The smoke from the fireworks is expected to move eastward and remain trapped at low altitudes instead of rising and dispersing, MeidasTouch added, which would mean potentially prolonging exposure for communities downwind.