The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued an ozone high pollution advisory for Wednesday.
A high pollution advisory is issued when ozone levels are expected to exceed federal standards. Ozone is an invisible pollutant formed with other pollution, such as nitrogen oxides from cars, when heated.
Ozone levels stayed low during the recent below-normal temperatures. But with the heat this week and a lack of afternoon winds, ozone levels quickly accelerated, more than doubling from Sunday to Monday, according to ADEQ’s press release.
Ozone can aggravate the lungs and can lead to coughing or chest pain. People with existing respiratory disease, as well as active adults and children, should reduce outdoor activity on Wednesday. Motorists are asked to carpool or telecommute to minimize additional impact from vehicle exhaust.
More information can be found at http://www.azdeq.gov/ensemble.pdf
