Hey folks, have you noticed all those air quality alerts popping up lately as summer kicks into high gear? Well, one important tip to stay safe is to steer clear of gas stations until the air quality improves.
Recent weeks have seen a surge in poor air quality in various states due to scorching temperatures. The weather-service/”>National Weather Service (NWS) has issued air quality alerts in six states including Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Colorado, New York, and California.
The Midwest and Northeast regions have been hit hard by a heat wave, while the Post Fire near Los Angeles has led to alerts in California.
According to experts, a combination of urban air pollution, wildfires, and other emissions sources can result in summertime ozone issues.
Environmental officials are advising residents to avoid activities that worsen air quality, like refueling vehicles or using gas-powered lawn equipment during peak ozone hours when air quality is most compromised.
When the Air Quality Index (AQI) hits 101 or higher, it’s deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups. The scale goes up to hazardous levels above 300.
AirNow, which monitors air quality, indicates that the AQI is currently moderate in most affected areas but unhealthy for sensitive groups in California. As the day progresses, expect air quality to worsen in the Midwest and Northeast.