PHX Reporter

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County for Wednesday, July 10, and Thursday, July 11, 2024. This advisory is due to expected ozone levels that may exceed the federal health standard.

Ground-level ozone forms when emissions from vehicles, gasoline and diesel equipment, industrial processes, and other activities react with sunlight. Ozone pollution is more prevalent during spring and summer months because these emissions react more readily to sunlight.

Ozone pollution can affect all county residents, particularly children whose lungs are still developing. 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 to reduce ozone pollution:

- Promote remote work to reduce traffic.

- Carpool, vanpool, or use public transportation.

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

- Ride a bike or walk to work.

- Sweep instead of using a leaf blower.

- Refuel vehicles after dark or during cooler evening hours.

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

- Delay painting projects until advisories have passed.

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

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

This High Pollution Advisory includes specific restrictions:

- Wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar fires is prohibited in Maricopa County. This includes those with 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.