TUCSON, Ariz. — The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality and Pima County Department of Environmental Quality issued a High Pollution Advisory effective Tuesday, May 26 in the Tucson area.
According to a press release from ADEQ, individuals are advised to limit outdoor activities while the High Pollution Advisory is in effect, including children and adults with respiratory issues.
Ground level ozone forms when two types of pollutants; volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides react during sunlight, ADEQ reports. These pollutants can come from vehicles, industries, power plants and products like; solvents and paints.
The highest levels of ozone typically occur in the afternoon. On Tuesday, the ozone levels will reach its peak between 1 p.m. - 5p.m. The advisory may continue into Wednesday.
Air pollution can have health impacts including; children, adults and older adults who are exercising outside, and individuals with heart of lung disease, and those who may have asthma and bronchitis, according to ADEQ. Exposure to these pollutants can increase asthma attacks and aggravate bronchitis or lung disease. Signs of exposure may include; itchy eyes, nose and throat, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain and upper respiratory problems.
Ways to help reduce ozone provided by ADEQ:
- Limit driving; carpool or use public transportation
- Re-fuel vehicles and automobiles in the evening
- Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines
- Use low Volatile Organic Compounds or water-based paints
- Be sure containers of household cleaners, chemicals and other solvents are properly sealed
Check the hourly air quality forecast, here.
