For more information contact:
Skye Siegel
(520) 724-7447The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality is issuing an air quality advisory due to significantly elevated hourly levels of particulate matter. We are evaluating possible sources including blowing dust and regional fires. In addition, the National Weather Service has issued a Blowing Dust Advisory from 2pm until 9pm this evening for strong thunderstorm outflow winds with blowing dust to be generated from storms across south central Arizona.
Individuals with heart disease and respiratory sensitivities may want to reduce their level of exertion to decrease the amount of particulates they breathe into their lungs, especially if they are near dust-prone locations or smell smoke. Those most at risk may feel better if they avoid outside exercise today, stay inside as much as possible, and keep windows and doors closed to help reduce exposure to particulate matter.
Particulate matter is made up of tiny specks of soot, dust, and aerosols that are suspended in the air we breathe. Particulate matter can come from either combustion (cars, industry, fires) or dust from disturbed land that becomes airborne with high winds.
PDEQ monitors air pollution in our region at 17 air quality monitoring sites. Up-to-the-hour air pollution levels are available online at the PDEQ website www.airinfonow.org or by calling the PDEQ hotline at (520) 882-4AIR.
The public can sign up to receive Air Quality Advisories and other Pima County Department of Environmental Quality notices directly via email.