The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an ozone high pollution advisory (HPA) for Tuesday, Aug. 7.
The HPA is being issued because ozone levels are already to the mid- to upper part of the moderate category and light-wind circulation flows from the east and northeast on Tuesday are expected to lock ozone in the Valley. Highest concentrations are expected in the central and west parts of the Valley.
“With several days of extremely high temperatures forecasted this week, it’s important to be thinking of what we can do to improve air quality in our communities,” said Steve Banta, Valley Metro CEO. “Consider carpooling with a neighbor or co-worker or using public transit to reduce the emissions that contribute to ozone formation.”
Ozone is created when other pollutants in the air are heated by the sun. The Valley is also under an excessive heat warning through Wednesday, Aug. 8, with temperatures up to 115 possible. Ozone can aggravate existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma.
The Maricopa County Air Quality Department will enforce its mandatory “no burn day” restrictions during the HPA on Tuesday. This restriction includes individuals and businesses that have burn permits for open burning.
ADEQ recommends that children and adults with respiratory problems avoid outdoor activities on Tuesday and suggests the general public limit outdoor activity throughout the day.
