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The Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County is issuing an Air Pollution PRECAUTION due to Saharan Dust. This precautionary statement is effective immediately, today 7/10/2026. There is a potential for Particulate Matter of 2.5 micrometers or less to reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups.
Particulate Matter (PM) is one of the US EPA Criteria Air Pollutants and has an established National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) based on health criteria. Particulate matter is the term for a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Particulate matter can be defined as PM10 which are inhalable particles of 10 micrometers and smaller or PM2.5 which are inhalable particles of 2.5 micrometers and smaller. Particulate matter can be emitted directly from a source (construction sites, unpaved roads, fires, etc.) or can form in the atmosphere as a result of complex reactions of chemicals such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Additional information regarding Particulate Matter can be found at:
https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution
Since we may experience high moderate levels with Air Quality Index values from 51 – 100, unusually sensitive individuals, such as the elderly, children, and individuals with respiratory ailments may consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. Saharan Dust usually impacts our area each year during the summer months and continues until mid to late July. This alert is effective throughout this weekend and into next week.
If you have any questions or need further information, please call: The Environmental Protection Commission, Air Division Christian Rodriguez at (813) 627-2600 x1273.
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