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St. Paul, Minn.-- The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has issued an
air pollution health advisory for
portions of eastern, southern and southwestern Minnesota, effective 10am Saturday through 9pm Saturday. The affected area
includes the Twin Cities Metro, Mankato, New Ulm, Albert Lea, Fairmont and
Marshall.
Forecasted temperatures in the low 90s,
clear sunny skies, and light and variable winds will lead to the formation of
ground level ozone. As a result, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecasted to
reach into the 90s on Saturday, which is just below air quality conditions
considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Ozone concentrations will be the
lowest in the morning hours before gradually rising late morning through the
afternoon. Ozone concentrations will begin to decline after sunset Saturday.
At-risk Populations: Ozone pollution is expected to be near a level considered unhealthy
for sensitive groups. Those sensitive to ozone include people with preexisting
respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, the elderly, children, and
individuals who participate in outdoor activities requiring extended or heavy
exertion. These individuals are encouraged to postpone or reduce vigorous
outdoor activity, or schedule outdoor activity in the morning, when ozone
levels are lower. Even persons who are otherwise healthy may experience health
effects when ozone levels increase.
Health Impacts: Elevated levels of ozone have been
linked to respiratory and cardiovascular health effects. Exposure to high
levels of ozone may exacerbate preexisting health conditions. High ozone levels
may make it more difficult to breathe deeply and vigorously, cause shortness of
breath and breathing discomfort, and result in coughing and a sore or scratchy
throat. If you experience these symptoms, contact your physician.
Pollution-reduction Tips: Ozone is produced on hot,
sunny days by a chemical reaction between volatile organic compounds and oxides
of nitrogen. These pollutants are released from motor vehicles, lawn and garden
equipment, paints and solvents, refueling stations, and other activities that
require fuel combustion. Conserving energy; buying clean, renewable power; and
utilizing alternative means of transportation, such as mass transit, will all
reduce your contribution to air pollution. During air quality alerts, residents
are particularly encouraged to use public transportation, car pool or reduce vehicle
trips and engine idling. Postpone the use of gasoline-powered equipment and avoid
burning wood.
Visit http://www.pca.state.mn.us for information on
current air quality conditions in your area. To receive daily air quality
forecasts and air quality alert notifications by email or text message sign up
at http://mn.enviroflash.info. You can find
additional information on indoor and outdoor air quality in Minnesota at www.beairawaremn.org.
Broadcast version
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an
air pollution health advisory for
portions of eastern, southern and southwestern Minnesota, effective 10am Saturday through 9pm Saturday. The affected area
includes the Twin Cities Metro, Mankato, New Ulm, Albert Lea, Fairmont and
Marshall.
Forecasted temperatures in the low 90s,
clear sunny skies, and light and variable winds will lead to the formation of
ground level ozone. As a result, the Air Quality Index is forecasted to
reach into the 90s on Saturday, which is just below air quality conditions
considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Ozone concentrations will be the
lowest in the morning hours before gradually rising late morning through the
afternoon. Ozone concentrations will begin to decline after sunset Saturday.
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The mission of the MPCA is to protect and improve the environment and enhance human health.
St. Paul • Brainerd • Detroit Lakes • Duluth • Mankato • Marshall • Rochester • Willmar
www.pca.state.mn.us • Toll-free and TDD 800-657-3864
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