Smog Chokes Washington After Massive July 4 Fireworks Display, Triggers Health Concern | Videos

Last Updated:July 05, 2026, 8:24 PM IST

Fireworks have long been a central part of Fourth of July celebrations in the United States.

Visual of the smog engulfing the US capital. (Image: X)

A day after the United States marked its 250th Independence Day with large-scale fireworks displays, several users on X shared videos and photos showing a hazy sky over Washington DC on Sunday, raising concerns about air pollution caused by the celebrations.

In a post on X, ABC News’ Selina Wang shared an image showing Washington’s AQI, which stood at 180.

“Pollution this morning in DC after massive fireworks show last night. Washington Post reported National Parks Service prepared internal documents that the fireworks were expected to cause hazardous levels of pollution around the National Mall & “very unhealthy” conditions in DC,” she wrote.

Netizens Flag Pollution In Washington DC

Another X user, @MatthewCappucci, claimed that “hazardous firework-induced smog” has engulfed the US capital. He alleged that a Code Purple alert was in effect due to the pollution. He also shared a video, showing a layer of smog shrouding the city.

“Hazardous firework-induced smog continues to hover over Washington DC this morning. Avoid time outdoors if you can. The air so filled with microscopic particulates (PM2.5) that it’s potentially harmful to exert oneself outside. CODE PURPLE alert in effect,” the user wrote.

Experts Warned Of Fireworks’ Health Risks

Fireworks have long been a central part of Fourth of July celebrations in the United States. However, health experts have repeatedly warned that the smoke they produce can significantly affect air quality.

According to the American Lung Association, nearly 300 million pounds of fireworks are released into the atmosphere in the US each year, Fox News reported. The resulting smoke contains fine particulate matter and gases such as sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, along with metals including aluminium, manganese and cadmium. Some illegal fireworks may also contain lead.

The organisation has warned that inhaling these pollutants can irritate the lungs, make breathing difficult and worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A 2015 study also found that air pollution levels increase by an average of 42% on the Fourth of July.

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Manisha Roy

Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com’s general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish…Read More

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