Arizonans are gearing up for a couple of rough days ahead in terms of air quality. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has officially issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for both today, September 2, and Wednesday, September 3. This advisory is a signal to residents that the ozone levels are predicted to surpass federal health standards. Especially sensitive groups like children and those with respiratory issues are advised to limit outdoor activities, becoming aware of the invisible dangers that even our clear skies can pose.
The department is urging the public to take proactive measures to help mitigate the ozone levels. Among them, residents are encouraged to drive less, carpool, use public transit, or even telecommute to avoid contributing to the burgeoning problem. Another interesting tidbit offered up by the authorities emphasizes fueling vehicles after dark or during cooler evening hours when the ozone impact is less. The department has also advised residents to reduce drive-thru wait times by opting to go straight inside storefronts.
During these HPAs, Maricopa County residents are prohibited from engaging in wood burning in their residential fireplaces, chimineas, and outdoor fire pits. Additionally, the use of off-highway vehicles is restricted to try to ensure to minimize the negative impacts on the air quality. Furthermore, government employees and contractors are also prohibited from operating leaf blowers, with residents being asked to follow suit.
Transportation Coordinators in the region have a specific role to play as well. They've been requested to activate their HPA plans and to encourage the use of alternative transportation among employees. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality emphasizes the importance of this, especially as pollution levels are expected to steadily rise.
Ground-level ozone isn’t released directly into the air; it forms when sunlight reacts with nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In Arizona, April through September is considered “ozone season,” a longer stretch than in many other regions. A High Pollution Advisory (HPA) signals that ozone levels may exceed the federal health standard on a given day. The alert is a reminder that even in a desert city known for its open skies, residents must stay mindful of protecting the air they and their children breathe.
