The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County for Thursday, June 5, 2025. The advisory is due to anticipated ozone levels that are expected to surpass the federal health standard.
Ground-level ozone is formed when emissions from vehicles, gasoline and diesel equipment, industrial processes, and other daily activities react with sunlight. This type of pollution is more common during the spring and summer months.
While some individuals may be more sensitive than others, all residents in the county can be affected by ground-level ozone pollution. It poses risks to lung health and can trigger asthma attacks. Children are particularly vulnerable because their lungs are still developing, they are often active outdoors, and they have a higher likelihood of having asthma compared to adults. Adults with asthma or other lung diseases and older adults also have increased sensitivity to ozone. The public is advised to limit outdoor activities while the HPA is in effect, especially those with respiratory issues.
ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) suggest several measures for residents and businesses to help reduce ozone pollution:
– Promote remote work options.
– Reduce driving by carpooling or using public transportation.
– Avoid long drive-thru lines; park your car instead.
– Opt for biking or walking.
– Use a broom instead of a leaf blower.
– Refuel vehicles after dark or during cooler evening hours.
– Use low-VOC or water-based paints and delay painting projects during advisories.
– Ensure containers of household chemicals are sealed properly.
For further information on reducing air pollution, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.
This High Pollution Advisory includes restrictions such as prohibiting wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar fires within Maricopa County. This applies even to those with burn permits for open burning. Government employees and contractors are prohibited from using leaf blowers during HPAs, and residents are encouraged to avoid leaf blowing as well. Off-road vehicle use should also be avoided.
Ari Halpert serves as the media contact for this advisory at 602-501-1266 (cell) or 602-506-6713 (desk), email: ari.halpert@maricopa.gov.
The mission of MCAQD is to improve air quality in Maricopa County so that residents can live in a healthy environment. For more resources on air quality standards set by the federal Clean Air Act, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.
