The National Weather Service in Oklahoma City reports a sunny forecast with a high near 87 today, as the light wind will shift to east southeast later in the morning. Tonight's sky will remain clear, with a low around 64 degrees, continuing a trend of warm, clear days ahead. According to the National Weather Service, residents can expect rising temperatures throughout the week, culminating in highs approaching the mid-90s by Sunday.
While the weather may seem optimal, there is an undercurrent of concern as the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for Ozone for Thursday, September 12, for the Oklahoma City Metropolitan area. Posted in the early evening of September 11, the alert cautions that "high concentrations of ozone" could impact the public, particularly affecting those with preexisting health conditions. In a statement obtained by the National Weather Service, the agency advises the general public to reduce emissions by limiting vehicle use and avoiding refueling during peak hours of the day. Persons with heart or respiratory ailments are recommended to minimize outdoor activities and physical exertion.
Moreover, the forecast for the coming days includes a chance for thunderstorms by next Tuesday and Wednesday. The hazardous weather outlook, as noted by the National Weather Service, suggests that these thunderstorms could break up the stretch of sunny skies. However, no significant weather worries are expected before then, providing the region a window of calm before any potential disturbance.
Air quality is a community issue, so everyone in Oklahoma should help out. To protect your health and others', try using public transportation and avoid activities that worsen air pollution, like running lawn mowers or motorcycles on days with poor air quality. For the latest air quality updates and health warnings, you can check with the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality or the American Lung Association of Oklahoma.
