Pima County, Ariz. - The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ) Clean Air Program is issuing an Air Quality Health Watch for August 24, 2020 due to the potential for higher levels of ground-level ozone air pollution and particulates in the Tucson metropolitan area. PDEQ air quality monitors captured levels of ozone exceeding the federal health standard on August 19, August 21, and August 22. Hazy skies may continue throughout the week, potentially causing spikes in air pollution levels.
Wildfire smoke transported from California wildfires, as well as fires in our area, are likely a significant contributor to recent and current levels of ozone and particulates. In addition to motor vehicle exhaust, industrial and power plant emissions, gasoline vapors, chemical solvents and natural sources, wildfire smoke provides additional precursors that combine in the presence of sunlight to create ozone.
People who are sensitive to air pollution may experience shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation, wheezing, and breathing discomfort. If sensitive to air pollution, individuals may want to limit outside exertion in the afternoon when elevated levels of ozone pollution are more likely to occur. Intense outdoor physical activity causes faster and deeper breathing, which allows ozone and particulates to penetrate into parts of the lungs that are more susceptible to injury.
Children, adults who are active outdoors, and people with respiratory diseases tend to be more sensitive to these pollutants. Individuals who are feeling symptoms should seek medical attention, if necessary.
Although wildfire smoke is a significant contributing factor in current ozone conditions, we can all help by taking controllable actions that reduce emissions, such as:
- Reduce driving - combine errands into one trip, ride the bus, bike, walk or share rides
- Avoid idling your vehicle’s engine. Refrain from long drive-thru lines - park and go inside instead
- Re-fuel your car after 6 p.m. when fumes are less likely to form ozone
- While re-fueling, always stop at the click to avoid spills and overfilling gas tank
- Make sure your gas cap is tightly sealed after re-fueling
- Check your tire pressure monthly to reduce gasoline use and associated air pollution
- Use low VOC or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers
- Avoid using gas-powered lawn and gardening equipment
- Conserve electricity to reduce emissions from power plants
PDEQ monitors air pollution at 14 locations in eastern Pima County. Up-to-the-hour air pollution levels are available on the PDEQ website air monitoring section. Individuals can sign up to receive Air Quality Advisories and other Pima County Department of Environmental Quality notices via email. In addition, individuals can sign up to receive Arizona Department of Environmental Quality 5-Day Air Quality Forecasts for Pima County.