Smoke from the ongoing marsh fires in the New Orleans area could cause problems for some in Baton Rouge, according to the Department of Environmental Quality.
The Air Quality Index for Baton Rouge on Wednesday averaged at the orange level, meaning the elderly, children and those with respiratory conditions may experience health problems, said Tom Bergeron, DEQ environmental chemical engineer.
Levels in Baton Rouge usually fluctuate between a healthy green or a moderately unhealthy yellow, Bergeron said.
But levels have varied from yellow to red, the highest and least healthy level, due to marshes that have been ablaze since Friday, Bergeron said.
Those with “asthma, allergies and other respiratory conditions” should avoid staying outdoors for prolonged periods of time and should use central air conditioning at homes and in cars if possible, a DEQ news release said. If illnesses occur, health care providers should be consulted.
Smoke from the marsh fires contain particles that can cause health problems, Bergeron said. Depending on weather conditions and wind directions, those particles can have a dangerously high concentration in the Baton Rouge area.
Bergeron said only susceptible people should take extra caution, but problems could arise for any person as unpredictable weather and the marsh fires continue.
 
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Contact Brian Sibille at [email protected]