How is the fire in South Park affecting air quality in Charlotte? Here’s what to know
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SouthPark Fire
On May 18, 2023, a five-alarm fire broke out at a construction site in SouthPark. Two men died as a result of the blaze.
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A massive fire burning in Charlotte’s South Park neighborhood Thursday morning could be affecting air quality in nearby neighborhoods.
The fire is in the area of South Park Business Park towers near Fairview Road and Piedmont Row Drive, according to first responders. Video from the scene and radio traffic between first responders indicated part of a garage structure collapsed before 10 a.m.
Air quality in the 28211 ZIP code, where South Park is located, currently sits at 55, which is considered “moderate,” according to Air Quality Index metrics on the air quality measuring website AirNow.
At that level, it is recommended people who are “usually sensitive to particle pollution” should consider reducing outdoor activities and shortening their time outdoors.
The Air Quality Index measures how clean or polluted the air is, with values ranging from 0-500. Higher AQI values mean there are greater levels of pollution in the air.
Smoke from fires can make outdoor air unhealthy to breathe, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Symptoms of smoke inhalation include coughing, shortness of breath, hoarseness, irritated eyes and headache, according to WebMD.
Do you have any photos or video to share? Did you see the fire? Submit photos or information for publication using this form or email news@charlotteobserver.com.
This story was originally published May 18, 2023 at 11:51 AM.
