Heads up, Columbus! The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) has issued an Air Quality Alert for today, Thursday, June 20. This heads-up is crucial as the air quality levels are expected to be unhealthy for sensitive groups due to elevated ground-level ozone pollution.
What’s Happening?
The alert covers Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, and Licking counties, which are all set to experience an AQI (Air Quality Index) level of 101. For those not in the know, the AQI scale runs from 0 to 500, and anything over 100 is a red flag for sensitive groups. That means if you have asthma, COPD, are elderly, or are an active child, you might want to think twice about prolonged outdoor activities tomorrow.
The Science Behind the Alert
So, why the sudden spike in air pollution? A slightly drier air mass is moving into Central Ohio, which will suppress thunderstorm development. Add calm to light winds into the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for stagnant air. Couple that with mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-90s, and it’s no wonder ozone levels are on the rise.
Who Needs to Be Extra Careful?
Active children, the elderly, and anyone with asthma or COPD should limit their time outdoors or stick to the morning hours when the air is a bit fresher. If you experience any breathing difficulties, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. For more detailed info on how ozone pollution can affect your health, the U.S. EPA has got you covered at AirNow.
Get Alerts and Take Action
Want to stay ahead of the game? You can sign up for free Air Quality Alert notifications via email by visiting MORPC’s Air Quality page.
What You Can Do to Help
MORPC has some handy tips to help everyone breathe easier:
- Explore Your Commute Options: Check out Gohio Commute for eco-friendly transportation choices.
- Turn Off Your Engine: If you’re idling, cut the engine to reduce emissions.
- Refuel in the Evening: Fill up your tank after the sun goes down to minimize ozone pollution.
- Avoid Topping Off Your Tank: Spilled gas evaporates and pollutes the air.
- Skip the Lawn Mowing: Gas-powered lawn equipment contributes to air pollution. Plus, longer grass is better for the environment.
Beat the Heat at Cooling Centers
Columbus Recreation and Parks has opened cooling centers at five regional community centers. These centers provide a much-needed respite from the extreme heat. For more details, visit Keep Cool with Us.
READ MORE: Where To Cool Off During Heat Waves In Columbus
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
Remember, small actions can make a big difference in improving our air quality. Let’s all do our part to ensure we’re breathing the best air possible. Stay safe, Columbus, and keep an eye on those AQI levels!
Featured image via Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) Facebook.
