Trump plans record fireworks show, internal docs warn of smoky skies
www.politico.com

... The National Park Service will launch a dazzling 850,000 fireworks in the nation's capital this year. Officials acknowledge the potential health risks.

The National Park Service on Saturday will launch over 850,000 fireworks into the skies of Washington, bathing the capital in patriotic blasts of light for the nation's 250th birthday.

Then comes the fallout.

Scientists have well documented the soot and heavy metal pollution that can spike severely in the wake of pyrotechnic displays, and the world-record-setting number of fireworks lined up for July 4 will mean an equally large jump in pollution, according to experts and internal NPS documents reviewed by POLITICO.

There are no indications that the administration plans to suggest masking or other personal protection for revelers viewing the fireworks from the nation's front lawn. And the Environmental Protection Agency said tracking the air quality impacts of the fireworks isn't their jurisdiction.

"First off, fireworks are awesome and we hope everyone enjoys the incredible shows in and around our nation's capital as we celebrate 250 years of America," EPA spokesperson Mike Bastasch said in an email. "The EPA is not issuing permits for the fireworks for this event."

But NPS officials have warned internally that the fireworks could cause hazardous levels of pollution around the National Mall. The draft air-quality analysis from May says people should "avoid prolonged exposure" to the fine particulate matter pollution, including by wearing N95 masks "when outdoors." ...