Ozone High Pollution Advisory Issued for Maricopa County in August 2026

ADEQ Issues Ozone Alert in Maricopa County for Upcoming Days

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced an Ozone High Pollution Advisory for Maricopa County, scheduled for Monday, August 10, and Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The advisory is a result of anticipated ozone levels that are projected to surpass the federal health standards.

Ground-level ozone is created when emissions from vehicles, industrial processes, and other activities interact with sunlight. The presence of these emissions is especially significant during the warmer months of spring and summer, leading to increased ozone pollution.

Ozone pollution poses a health risk to all residents, but it is particularly harmful to the lungs and can trigger asthma attacks. Children, who are often active outdoors and have developing lungs, are at the highest risk. Others at risk include adults with existing lung conditions and older demographics. During this advisory period, the public is advised to minimize outdoor activities, with special caution for children and those with respiratory issues.

Recommendations to Reduce Ozone Pollution

Both ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) suggest several measures for individuals and businesses to help decrease ozone pollution:

Encourage remote work to lessen traffic congestion.

Opt for carpooling, van pooling, or public transportation to decrease solo driving.

Avoid idling in long drive-thru lines; park and enter establishments instead.

Consider biking or walking to work.

Sweep instead of using leaf blowers.

Refuel vehicles in the evening when it is cooler.

Utilize low-VOC or water-based paint products.

Postpone painting projects until the advisory is lifted.

Ensure that household cleaners and chemicals are tightly sealed to prevent vapor release.

Visit Maricopa.gov/AQ for more tips on reducing air pollution.

Restrictions During the Advisory

The High Pollution Advisory enforces several restrictions, including:

A ban on wood-burning activities in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits across Maricopa County.

Prohibition on the use of leaf blowers by government employees and contractors; residents are also encouraged to refrain from using them.

Recommendation against using off-road vehicles.

For more information on air quality standards and resources, visit the Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

Stay updated by following the Maricopa County Air Quality Department on social media: Instagram: @maricopaair, Twitter: @maricopaair, Facebook: @maricopaair.

Download the MCAQD’s Clean Air app for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices to stay informed on air quality updates.