Air Quality Alert issued for Memorial Day, Tuesday as weather heats up
May 27—An Air Quality Alert has been issued for the region on Memorial Day and Tuesday by the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission and Regional Air Pollution Control Agency.
The advisory is for Clark, Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery and Preble counties, which will see highs in the mid-80s to low 90s for the weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington.
The alert was issued due to the sunny skies, high temperatures and a light-to-moderate southerly wind in the forecast. Combined, those conditions are favorable for ground-level ozone to form, which can lead to elevated air pollution levels. The Air Quality Index forecast is 101 for Monday and 105 for Tuesday.
Any reading of 101 or higher is considered "unhealthy for sensitive groups," according to the agency.
The elderly, children and anyone with respiratory diseases should cut back prolonged and heavy exertion. If spending time outside, anyone considered at-risk should take more breaks and do less strenuous activities.
Anyone coughing experiencing a shortness of breath or unusual fatigue should call their health care provider.
The general public is not expected to be affected.
People are encouraged to do the following to reduce ground-level ozone: — Avoid driving if possible. If not, combine errands or delay them until the Air Quality Alert is lifted. While driving, avoid excessive idling, especially at drive-thru windows. — Refuel vehicles after 8 p.m., 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.
For more information visit MiamiValleyAir.org.
