Arizona Issues High Pollution Advisory for Dust and Ozone August 7

Air Quality Alert Issued for Maricopa County: Residents Urged to Limit Outdoor Activities

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced a High Pollution Advisory for Maricopa County on Friday, August 7, due to elevated levels of smoke and dust particles. This advisory is in response to the anticipated accumulation of coarse particulate matter, or PM₁₀, and ozone, which are expected to surpass federal health standards.

Individuals with heart or lung conditions, seniors, and children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of particle pollution. PM₁₀ particles, small enough to infiltrate the respiratory system, can lead to short-term health issues such as irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, as well as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and difficulty breathing. These particles can also impair lung function and exacerbate conditions like asthma and heart disease.

To mitigate the impact of this advisory, several restrictions have been put in place:

Prohibition of wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar fires throughout Maricopa County, including for those with burn permits.

Government employees and contractors are banned from using leaf blowers, and residents are encouraged to refrain from using them during the advisory.

Avoidance of off-road vehicle use is advised.

The ADEQ recommends that the public, especially those with respiratory issues, minimize outdoor activities while the advisory is active. To further assist in improving air quality, ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) suggest adopting the following practices:

Refrain from activities that produce dust, such as driving on unpaved roads.

Secure loose soils to prevent them from becoming airborne.

Cease the use of fireplaces and wood stoves.

Forego using leaf blowers; instead, use a rake or broom to clear debris.

Limit driving by carpooling, using public transport, or telecommuting. For more transportation options, visit ShareTheRide.com.

Understanding the High Pollution Advisory

The High Pollution Advisory serves as a notification to the public when air pollution levels are projected to exceed federal health standards. Particulate matter (PM) levels, which consist of tiny solid particles and liquid droplets in the air, are closely monitored by state and county agencies. PM can originate from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and airborne dust. The two measured types are PM₁₀ (dust) and PM_2.5 (soot), with PM₁₀ being particles 10 microns or smaller, and PM_2.5 being 2.5 microns or smaller. For context, a human hair is approximately 70-100 microns thick.

About Maricopa County Air Quality Department

The mission of the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) is to enhance the county’s air quality, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy a healthy environment. Governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, the department adheres to standards set by the federal Clean Air Act. For further information and resources, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.

Stay updated by following MCAQD on social media: Instagram at @maricopaair, Twitter at @maricopaair, and Facebook at @maricopaair. Download the MCAQD’s Clean Air app for free on iOS or Android.