This week in Texas, drivers are being urged to cut back on car travel due to alarming air quality warnings. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has declared an “Ozone Action Day” for Tuesday, affecting the Houston, Galveston, and Brazoria areas.
During this time, authorities are asking residents to limit their driving for a full 24 hours to help reduce ozone pollution. Ground-level ozone, which results from a mix of pollutants and sunlight, has harmful effects on health, especially for those with respiratory issues.
Similar alerts have been issued in other states, including Colorado, Indiana, and Alabama, where officials encourage residents to avoid using gasoline and diesel vehicles to minimize emissions and improve air quality.
The Environmental Protection Agency warns that ozone can reach unhealthy levels, especially on hot days. They point out that individuals with asthma are particularly susceptible to these unsafe air conditions.
The National Weather Service noted that Tuesday’s atmospheric conditions could promote high ozone pollution levels. To combat this, commuters are encouraged to walk, bike, carpool, or, if necessary, drive without idling in drive-thru lanes. Practical suggestions include packing lunches and maintaining your vehicle for optimal performance.
Furthermore, air quality concerns are not limited to Texas. Parts of California, like Coachella and Palm Springs, are also facing challenges due to dust and wildfire smoke, prompting advisories for residents to remain indoors.