The National Park Service’s own internal analysis warns that Saturday’s record-setting Independence Day fireworks could push air pollution in central Washington to hazardous levels, according to documents reported by The Washington Post and Politico.
Organizers at Freedom 250 say the display will include more than 850,000 fireworks, launching from sites including the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, in an attempt at a new world record. The current record is 810,904 fireworks, set at a 2016 New Year’s countdown in the Philippines.
The effects will be launched from multiple locations around the National Mall, West Potomac Park and the Potomac River, and the show is set to begin at 10:30 p.m. and run about 40 minutes.
The Park Service’s internal modeling projects fine particulate levels of 600 to 1,200 micrograms per cubic meter in expected scenarios, and above 2,000 in worst-case conditions, the Post reported. For context, the federal 24-hour standard for that pollutant is 35 micrograms.
The documents describe projected air quality as “very unhealthy” and, according to both the Post and Politico, advise wearing N95 masks outdoors and limiting exposure after the show.
Politico, which reviewed a draft NPS air-quality analysis from May, reported that the Environmental Protection Agency said it is not issuing permits for the event and that tracking its air impacts is not the agency’s jurisdiction.
Heat could make it worse
The show coincides with extreme heat. Washington is expected to reach around 102 degrees, which would make it the city’s hottest July Fourth on record, CNN reported. A heat dome over much of the country is limiting winds and trapping air close to the ground, conditions that can keep smoke from dispersing.
This Fourth of July is going to be bad for several reasons. — Russell Dickerson, University of Maryland atmospheric scientist, to CNN
Research on past July Fourth displays found roughly a 42% average increase in fine particulate pollution in the hours after fireworks shows — displays far smaller than Saturday’s.
Politico reported that scientists have also raised concerns about perchlorates and heavy metals settling into the Potomac River, where drought conditions could slow their dispersal.
City prepares for crowds and heat
The Salute to America celebration has been designated a National Special Security Event by the Department of Homeland Security, and District officials are urging visitors to plan for road closures, extreme heat and heavy crowds, with hydration and cooling resources expanded across the Mall. A separate NPS fireworks celebration will run concurrently at Poplar Point in Anacostia Park.
Health officials’ standing guidance for poor air quality applies Saturday: people who are pregnant, have asthma or heart conditions, or are with young children or older adults should limit exposure, watch from a distance, or stay indoors with windows closed and filtration running.
This article draws on reporting by The Washington Post, Politico, CNN, and official statements from Freedom 250, the National Park Service and the D.C. mayor’s office.
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