The City of Dallas braces for a mixture of sweltering heat and potential thunderstorms coupled with concerning air quality levels this week. According to the National Weather Service, Fort Worth, TX, today carries a 20 percent chance of showers after 1 pm, under sunny skies, striking a high near 95 degrees. A calm wind will shift south southeast, approaching a modest 5 mph by afternoon. The same report forecasts a likelihood of thunderstorms this evening, increasing to a 30 percent chance post 4am with lows roughly around a comfortable 73 degrees.
Weather conditions come with an additional health advisory for residents. A statement released by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and relayed by the National Weather Service, alerts the public to an Ozone Action Day in effect for Thursday, September 18. The air quality alert is due to conditions favorable to high levels of ozone air pollution in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with recommended actions such as sharing rides, walking, or biking to contribute to the reduction of ozone production.
As the weekend draws near, Dallas residents can expect a relatively consistent weather pattern with a mix of mostly sunny skies and intermittent chances of showers. A 30 percent chance of rain persists into Friday before 1 pm. The weekend outlook remains mostly clear overnight with temperatures settling in the low 70s. Saturday then warms to high 90s, with minimal wind shifts into the south, maintaining consistent overnight expectations.
With air quality a valid concern, valuable resources are made available to the public. Websites such as EPA Air Now and Take Care of Texas provide specific details on how to stay informed and proactive during days with elevated ozone levels. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality urges the public to be aware of the air we breathe and to take actions that can help reduce emissions, according to the National Weather Service. Commuters are especially encouraged to adjust their travel habits in light of the Ozone Action Day declaration and to be mindful of their energy consumption daily. Residents are also encouraged to keep vehicles properly tuned as a simple yet impactful method to combat air pollution.
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