The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality is issuing an air quality advisory due to elevated levels of wind-generated particulate matter. The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory effective until 7:00 p.m. this evening. It is likely that the winds will continue to cause elevated levels of particulates throughout the day and into tonight.
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. 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 at Air Quality Advisory to receive Advisories and other Pima County Department of Environmental Quality notices directly via email.