PDEQ issues dust air pollution action day
PIMA COUNTY, July 11, 2024 - The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ) is issuing a Dust Action Day for particulate matter air pollution today for the Tucson metropolitan area. Last night, a dust storm came from northern Mexico, just south of New Mexico, and may be slow to clear out. Expected levels of course (PM10) and fine (PM2.5) particulate matter are expected to be in the moderate range today.
Those who are most likely to be sensitive to dust pollution include children, older adults, and people with heart or lung diseases. Sensitive individuals should reduce their level of exertion when outside today. Breathing small particles can irritate the respiratory system and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases.
Actions to reduce dust pollution:
- Eliminate fireplace and wood stove use.
- Avoid burning leaves, trash, and other materials.
- Avoid using gas-powered lawn and garden equipment.
- Avoid using leaf blowers.
- Avoid using off-highway vehicles (OHVs).
- Do not exceed 25 miles per hour while driving on dirt roads.
PDEQ’s Clean Air Program educates Pima County residents about the potential health effects associated with elevated levels of air pollution and promotes actions to reduce air pollution.
PDEQ monitors air pollution in our region at 16 air quality monitoring sites. Real-time air pollution levels are available online at the PDEQ website.
To receive Air Pollution Action Day advisories, sign up here.
To receive Arizona Department of Environmental Quality air quality forecasts, sign up here.
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