Ozone Alert Issued for Maricopa County: Residents Advised to Take Precautions
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced an Ozone High Pollution Advisory for Maricopa County, effective Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2, 2026. This advisory is issued due to anticipated ozone levels surpassing the federal health standard.
Ground-level ozone, a harmful air pollutant, results from sunlight-induced reactions involving emissions from vehicles, industrial processes, and various daily activities. The occurrence of ozone pollution is notably higher during spring and summer because of increased sunlight exposure.
All residents, especially those with respiratory issues, should be aware of the potential health impacts of ground-level ozone. Children, whose lungs are still developing, are particularly vulnerable, as are adults with existing lung diseases and older individuals. The public is urged to limit outdoor activities during the advisory, particularly those in sensitive groups.
Both the ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) suggest several measures to minimize ozone pollution and improve air quality:
- Encourage teleworking to reduce traffic congestion.
- Opt for carpooling, vanpooling, or public transportation to decrease individual vehicle use.
- Avoid using drive-thru services, and instead park and enter establishments.
- Consider biking or walking to work where feasible.
- Use a broom instead of a leaf blower for cleaning.
- Refuel vehicles after dark or during cooler evening periods to reduce emissions.
- Select low-VOC or water-based products for painting and finishing tasks.
- Postpone painting projects during high pollution advisories.
- Ensure chemical containers are properly sealed to prevent vapor release.
- Visit Maricopa.gov/AQ for more information on reducing air pollution.
The advisory also includes specific restrictions to help control pollution levels:
- Prohibition on wood burning in residential and commercial settings, including those with burn permits.
- Government employees are not allowed to use leaf blowers, and residents are discouraged from their use during the advisory period.
- Avoidance of off-road vehicle activities is recommended.
Understanding the Advisory
A High Pollution Advisory signals that air pollutant levels are expected to exceed federal health standards. Ground-level ozone forms through chemical reactions involving sunlight, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Contact Information
For further inquiries, contact Ari Halpert at 602-501-1266 (cell) or 602-506-6713 (desk), or email ari.halpert@maricopa.gov.
About MCAQD
The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) is dedicated to improving air quality for the region’s residents and visitors. Governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, MCAQD adheres to the standards set by the federal Clean Air Act. For more air quality resources, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.
Stay updated with MCAQD on social media:
Instagram: @maricopaair
Twitter: @maricopaair
Facebook: @maricopaair
Download the MCAQD Clean Air app for free on the App Store for iPhone and iPad, or on Google Play for Android devices.
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