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 (HPA) for Maricopa County, effective Thursday, July 30, 2026. This advisory is prompted by anticipated ozone levels that are expected to surpass the federal health standard for ozone concentration.
Ozone at ground level is formed when emissions from sources such as vehicles, industrial activities, and chemical processes interact with sunlight. These reactions are more common during the spring and summer, leading to increased ozone pollution during these times.
Exposure to ground-level ozone can pose health risks to all individuals, particularly affecting the lungs and potentially triggering asthma. Children are especially vulnerable due to their developing lungs and higher likelihood of outdoor activity. Adults with respiratory conditions and older adults are also at increased risk. The public is advised to minimize outdoor activities during the HPA, particularly those with respiratory issues.
ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) suggest several measures for residents and businesses to help reduce ozone pollution and improve air quality:
- Encourage remote work to decrease traffic.
- Reduce driving by carpooling, using van pools, or utilizing public transport.
- Avoid prolonged idling in drive-thru lines; park and go inside instead.
- Consider biking or walking to your destination.
- Opt for sweeping instead of using leaf blowers.
- Refuel vehicles after dark or during cooler evening hours.
- Use paints and finishes that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or water-based.
- Postpone painting projects during high pollution advisories.
- Ensure household cleaners and chemicals are properly sealed to prevent vapor release.
- Visit Maricopa.gov/AQ for more information on reducing air pollution.
The High Pollution Advisory includes specific restrictions:
- Prohibition of wood burning in residential and outdoor fireplaces, chimeneas, and fire pits within Maricopa County. This also applies to businesses with burn permits.
- Government employees and contractors are not allowed to use leaf blowers. Residents are encouraged to avoid leaf blowing during the advisory.
- Refrain from using off-road vehicles.
Background
A High Pollution Advisory (HPA) serves as a public notification when air pollutant levels are forecasted to exceed federal health standards. Ground-level ozone is produced through a chemical reaction involving sunlight, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and VOCs.
Contact Information
[English/Spanish]
Ari Halpert
602-501-1266 cell
602-506-6713 desk
About Maricopa County Air Quality Department
The mission of the Maricopa County Air Quality Department is to enhance air quality so that residents, customers, and visitors can enjoy a healthy environment. Governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, the department adheres to air quality standards established by the federal Clean Air Act. For more information on air quality, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.
Stay informed through social media:
Instagram: @maricopaair
Twitter: @maricopaair
Facebook: @maricopaair
Download the MCAQD’s Clean Air app for free. Available on the App Store for iPhone and iPad, and on Google Play for Android.
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