PHX Reporter

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County, effective Thursday, May 30, 2024. This advisory is due to anticipated ozone levels that are expected to surpass the federal health standard for ozone.

Ground-level ozone forms when emissions from vehicles, gasoline and diesel equipment, industrial processes, and other activities react with sunlight. The prevalence of these emissions reacting to sunlight increases during the spring and summer months.

While certain individuals may be more sensitive than others, all residents can be affected by ground-level ozone pollution. It is harmful to lungs and can trigger asthma attacks. Children are particularly at 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 vulnerable. During the HPA period, the public is advised to limit outdoor activities, especially children and adults with respiratory issues.

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

- Promote remote work to decrease traffic.

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

- Avoid long drive-thru lines by parking and going inside.

- Use bicycles or walk instead of driving.

- Sweep instead of using leaf blowers.

- Refuel vehicles after dark or during cooler evening hours.

- Use low-VOC or water-based paints and finishes.

- Delay painting projects until high pollution advisories have passed.

- Ensure containers of household cleaners and chemicals are sealed properly.

For further information on reducing air pollution, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.

The High Pollution Advisory includes specific restrictions:

- Prohibition on 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 operating leaf blowers. Residents are also encouraged to avoid using leaf blowers during HPAs.

- Off-road vehicle use should be avoided.

A High Pollution Advisory notifies the public that an air pollutant level is expected to exceed federal health standards. Ground-level ozone results from a chemical reaction involving sunlight, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

For media inquiries in English or Spanish:

Ari Halpert

602-501-1266 cell

602-506-6713 desk

ari.halpert@maricopa.gov

About Maricopa County Air Quality Department:

MCAQD’s mission is to improve air quality in Maricopa County so residents can live in a healthy environment. Governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, MCAQD adheres to air quality standards set by the federal Clean Air Act. For more information on air quality resources, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.

Follow MCAQD on Instagram (@maricopaair), Twitter (@maricopaair), Facebook (@maricopaair), or download their Clean Air app available on both iOS and Android platforms.