PHX Reporter

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County for Wednesday, May 22, 2024. This advisory is due to anticipated ozone levels that are expected to exceed the federal health standard.

Ground-level ozone forms when emissions from vehicles, gasoline and diesel equipment, industrial and chemical processes, and other everyday activities react with sunlight. This type of pollution is more prevalent during the spring and summer months due to increased sunlight.

While some individuals are more sensitive than others, all county residents can be affected by ground-level ozone pollution. It is particularly harmful to lungs and can trigger asthma attacks. Children are at the greatest risk because their lungs are still developing, they tend to be active outdoors, and they have a higher likelihood of having asthma. Adults with asthma or other lung diseases and older adults are also sensitive to ozone. The public is advised to limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) recommend several measures for residents and businesses to reduce ozone pollution:

- Promote remote work to reduce traffic.

- Carpool, vanpool, or use public transportation when possible.

- Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines; park your car and go inside instead.

- Consider biking or walking to work.

- Sweep instead of using leaf blowers.

- Refuel vehicles after dark or during cooler evening hours.

- Use low-VOC or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.

- Delay painting projects until high pollution advisories have passed.

- Ensure containers of household cleaners, garage chemicals, and other solvents are sealed properly.

Additional information on reducing air pollution can be found at CleanAirMakeMore.com.

The HPA includes specific restrictions:

- Wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar outdoor fires is prohibited in Maricopa County. This restriction applies even to those holding burn permits for open burning.

- Government employees and contractors are prohibited from operating leaf blowers. Residents are encouraged to avoid leaf blowing during HPAs.

- Off-road vehicle use should be avoided.