Medford, OR—The
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality issued an air pollution advisory
today for Jackson County due to elevated levels of ozone pollution combined
with smoke from a number of wildfires that started over the weekend.
With triple-digit
temperatures expected over the next few days, ozone could be a particular
concern.
On Monday
afternoon, an air quality monitor that tracks ozone in Talent was orange or
unhealthy for sensitive groups. In Medford and Ashland, monitors that track
particulate matter – the main ingredient in wildfire smoke – were yellow or
moderate meaning the air quality was unhealthy for extremely sensitive groups.
DEQ and health
officials recommend that children, pregnant women, asthma sufferers, those with
lung or heart conditions and adults age 65 and older limit outdoor activity
over the next few days.
While wildfire
smoke conditions can change rapidly, ozone levels tend to be highest during afternoon
and early evening.
Ozone, also known
as smog, forms when hot temperatures and low winds combine with pollution from
cars, gas-powered engines and chemicals in paints and aerosols.
DEQ urges residents
to protect their health and limit activities that cause pollution.
Recommendations include:
- · Limit driving by using public transit, carpooling or other alternative transportation
- · Avoid unnecessary engine idling
- · Refuel vehicles during cooler evening hours
- · Don't use gas-powered mowers or yard equipment
- · Don't paint or use aerosol sprays
Smog and
particulate matter can irritate the eyes, nose and lungs, and contribute to
breathing problems, reduced lung function and asthma.
Visit DEQ's Air
Quality Index for current conditions: http://www.deq.state.or.us/aqi/
You can also download DEQ’s Air Quality Index mobile app. Simply search for
OregonAir in your smart phone’s app store.
See
the latest forecasts and advisories issued by the National Weather Service: http://www.weather.gov/mfr/