High Pollution Alert Issued for Maricopa County Due to Elevated Particle Levels
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County, scheduled for Tuesday, December 16. This advisory stems from anticipated high levels of particulate matter, specifically PM2.5 and PM10, which are expected to surpass the federal health standards.
Particulate matter poses significant health risks, particularly to individuals with heart or lung conditions, as well as older adults and children. PM10 particles are small enough to infiltrate the respiratory system, potentially causing symptoms like irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, as well as coughing and shortness of breath. This exposure can also impair lung function and exacerbate existing health conditions such as asthma and heart disease.
Restrictions During High Pollution Advisory
To mitigate the impact of this advisory, several restrictions will be enforced:
- Prohibition of wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and any similar outdoor fires across Maricopa County. This applies to all individuals and businesses, including those with burn permits for open burning.
- Government employees and contractors are not allowed to use leaf blowers, and residents are advised against their use during HPAs.
- Avoidance of off-road vehicle use is recommended.
ADEQ advises that the general population, especially those with respiratory issues and children, limit outdoor activities while the HPA is active.
Recommended Actions for Residents and Businesses
During this advisory, ADEQ, along with the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD), encourages the community to adopt the following practices to improve air quality:
- Refrain from activities that create dust, such as driving on unpaved roads.
- Stabilize loose soils to prevent dust dispersion.
- Avoid using fireplaces and wood stoves.
- Substitute leaf blowers with rakes or brooms to manage debris.
- Minimize driving; consider carpooling, public transportation, or telecommuting. For transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.
Understanding the High Pollution Advisory
An HPA serves as a notification to the public when air pollutant levels are expected to exceed federal health standards. Particulate matter (PM) in the air is measured by state and county agencies. These particles originate from combustion activities like auto emissions and industrial processes, or from dust stirred into the air. PM is categorized into PM10 (dust) and PM2.5 (soot), with the former being particles up to 10 microns and the latter up to 2.5 microns in size. For context, a human hair measures about 70-100 microns in diameter.
About Maricopa County Air Quality Department
The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) is committed to enhancing the air quality of Maricopa County, ensuring a healthy environment for residents and visitors. MCAQD operates under the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and adheres to the air quality regulations set by the federal Clean Air Act. For more information, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.
Stay updated by following Maricopa County Air Quality on social media: Instagram @maricopaair, Twitter @maricopaair, and Facebook @maricopaair. Download the MCAQD’s Clean Air app for iPhone and Android devices.
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