Ozone High Pollution Advisory Issued for Maricopa County July 7, 2026

Arizona Issues Ozone Advisory for Maricopa County

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County, set for Tuesday, July 7, 2026. This alert comes as ground-level ozone concentrations are anticipated to surpass federal health guidelines.

Ozone at ground level is a byproduct of emissions from vehicles, industrial processes, and other common activities reacting with sunlight. This phenomenon is more common in warmer months like spring and summer, when sunlight is more intense.

Exposure to ground-level ozone can adversely affect lung health, potentially triggering asthma attacks, particularly in children, whose lungs are still developing. Other vulnerable groups include adults with existing respiratory conditions and the elderly. During the advisory, it is recommended to limit outdoor activities, especially for these sensitive populations.

ADEQ, in collaboration with the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD), advises residents and businesses to take the following steps to help reduce ozone pollution:

Encourage teleworking to minimize traffic congestion.

Reduce driving by carpooling, vanpooling, or utilizing public transportation.

Avoid long waits in drive-thru lines; park and go inside instead.

Consider biking or walking as alternatives to driving.

Opt for sweeping instead of using leaf blowers.

Refuel vehicles during cooler nighttime hours.

Utilize low-VOC or water-based paints and finishes.

Postpone painting projects during high pollution periods.

Ensure all household cleaners and chemicals are sealed properly to prevent vapor release.

Visit Maricopa.gov/AQ for additional information on reducing air pollution.

Specific restrictions during the advisory include:

Prohibition on wood burning in residential fireplaces and outdoor fire pits.

Government employees and contractors must refrain from using leaf blowers; residents are also encouraged to avoid them.

Refrain from off-road vehicle use.

Background on High Pollution Advisory

A High Pollution Advisory (HPA) serves to inform the public when air pollutant levels are expected to exceed federal standards.

Ground-level ozone is formed through chemical reactions involving sunlight, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Contact Information

Ari Halpert

602-501-1266 cell

602-506-6713 desk

Email: ari.halpert@maricopa.gov

About Maricopa County Air Quality Department

The Maricopa County Air Quality Department aims to enhance air quality for residents and visitors. Governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, the department aligns with federal Clean Air Act standards. For more information, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.

Like us on Facebook: @maricopaair

Download the MCAQD’s Clean Air app, available for iPhone, iPad, and Android.