MCPS schools and after-school activities should be closed on Thursday, June 8, 2023 and Friday, June 9, 2023 due to smoke in the air caused by a wildfire in Quebec. The air quality is dangerously low in this area and the National Weather Service has issued a Code RED Air Quality Alert as of Wednesday, June 7, 2023. People are encouraged to spend minimal time outdoors to avoid breathing in the smoke, which could pose a potential threat to their health. The health center at my high school is full of students who are complaining about sore throats, itchy/watery eyes, headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and congestion. These are all symptoms of lung irritation which can be caused by exposure and inhalation of heavy smoke. For the safety of MCPS students and staff, schools and after-school clubs and sports should be shut down for the remainder of the week.