ADEQ Issues High Pollution Advisory for Dust in Maricopa County

Arizona Issues High Pollution Advisory for Maricopa County

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County, effective Tuesday, August 4. The advisory focuses on coarse particulate matter (PM₁₀), with levels anticipated to surpass federal health standards.

Particulate matter, particularly PM₁₀, poses health risks, especially to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with heart or lung conditions. These particles can penetrate the respiratory system, causing symptoms like irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, along with coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Long-term exposure might worsen conditions like asthma and heart disease.

Restrictions and Recommendations

Under this advisory, several activities are restricted:

No wood burning in fireplaces, chimeneas, or outdoor fire pits, affecting both individuals and businesses with existing burn permits.

Government employees and contractors are barred from using leaf blowers, with all residents advised to refrain from such activities.

Avoidance of off-road vehicle use is recommended.

Residents are urged to limit outdoor activities during the advisory, particularly those with respiratory issues and children.

Guidelines for Healthier Air

ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) suggest that both residents and businesses adopt these practices to improve air quality:

Minimize activities that produce dust, like driving on dirt roads.

Secure loose soils.

Refrain from using fireplaces and wood stoves.

Opt for rakes or brooms instead of leaf blowers to clear debris.

Reduce driving by carpooling, using public transport, or telecommuting. For more information on transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.

Understanding Particulate Matter and HPAs

High Pollution Advisory (HPA): This alert indicates that air pollutant levels are predicted to exceed federal health standards.

Particulate Matter: These are tiny solid or liquid particles in the air, originating from combustion, dust, and other sources. PM₁₀ refers to particles 10 microns or smaller, while PM_2.5 refers to even finer particles. The size of these particles makes them a significant health concern.

Contact Information

For more details, contact Ari Halpert at 602-501-1266 (cell) or 602-506-6713 (desk), or via email at ari.halpert@maricopa.gov.

About Maricopa County Air Quality Department

The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) aims to enhance air quality for the health and enjoyment of residents and visitors. Governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, MCAQD adheres to the Clean Air Act’s standards. For air quality resources, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.

Stay updated by following MCAQD on social media: Instagram @maricopaair, Twitter @maricopaair, and Facebook @maricopaair. Download the free Clean Air app for iPhone, iPad, and Android.