UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Special Olympics Pennsylvania (SOPA) has canceled the 2023 Summer Games scheduled for June 8-10 at University Park due to concerns over air quality. SOPA officials have been monitoring the most recent air quality reports and determined that canceling was in the best interest of their athletes, who have higher rates of adverse health conditions and are therefore at greater risk from poor air quality, as well as the events many volunteers, supporters and spectators.
More information regarding the cancellation can be found on the SOPA website.
With the Air Quality Index in many parts of Pennsylvania hovering in the unhealthy to hazardous range due to the prevalence of fine particulate matter being produced by Canadian wildfires, Penn State is urging all students, faculty, staff and visitors on its campuses to monitor local conditions and follow health guidelines from state and federal agencies. Organizers of other outdoor activities are strongly encouraged to consider rescheduling or moving their activities indoors.