Air Quality Alert in effect across area today
Jul. 27—An Air Quality Alert is in effect today in Butler, Clark, Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, Preble and Warren counties, and also for Wednesday in Butler and Warren counties.
The Air Quality Index is 101, which means that the air is considered unhealthy for those in "sensitive groups."
The National Weather Service is forecasting temperatures in the upper 80s or low 90s under clear skies with a light wind. These conditions can cause ground-level ozone to form and may lead to elevated air pollution levels, according to the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission, which issued the alert in conjunction with the Regional Air Pollution Control Agency. The alert for Butler and Warren counties was issued by the Southwest Ohio Air Quality Agency.
Children, seniors and those with respiratory diseases should decrease prolong or heavy exertion. The general public most likely won't be affected. While it is OK to be outside during an Air Quality Alert, people should take more breaks and do less strenuous activity.
Coughing, shortness of breath or unusual fatigue could indicate a problem and anyone experiencing those symptoms should contact a health care provider.
People are encouraged to do the following to reduce ground-level ozone: — Avoid driving if possible. If not, try to combine running errands or delaying them until the Air Quality Alert is lifted. While driving, avoid excessive idling, especially at drive-thru windows. — Refuel vehicles after 8 p.m. if possible, or wait until the alert is over. Make sure your gas cap is on tightly to avoid letting gas fumes escape. — Limit the use of gasoline-powered equipment around the home, such as lawn mowers, chainsaws, power trimmers and shredders. — Mow lawns after 6 p.m.
