The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has extended Monday’s ozone health watch into Tuesday.
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has extended Monday’s ozone health watch into Tuesday.
An ozone health watch is issued when ozone levels may approach federal limits. Ozone is an invisible pollutant created when other pollutants in the air – such as volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides from vehicles – are heated by the sun.
Tuesday’s health watch may be blamed on circulation patterns created by the summer monsoon, according to the press release. The ADEQ’s Web site lists a possible high pollution advisory – when ozone levels exceed federal limits – for Wednesday due to a forecast for blowing dust.
Ozone can aggravate existing respiratory conditions and can lead to cough and sore throat. Those susceptible to respiratory disease should limit time outdoors.
