Pittsburgh, PA – Residents in Western Pennsylvania and Northern Ohio are being warned to limit outdoor activities on Sunday as elevated ozone levels trigger regional air quality alerts. Sensitive groups, including children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions, are most at risk.
What is the Air Quality Alert?
The Code Orange Air Quality Alert is in effect until midnight Sunday, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency. This means that ground-level ozone concentrations are expected to reach unhealthy levels, particularly for sensitive individuals. The alert covers a wide area, including both Pennsylvania and Ohio.
Areas Affected
In Pennsylvania, the alert affects Allegheny, Butler, Beaver, Armstrong, Washington, Westmoreland, and Fayette counties, including the Pittsburgh metro area. In Ohio, the advisory spans Cuyahoga, Summit, Lorain, Medina, Lake, Portage, Geauga, and Ashtabula counties, impacting cities such as Cleveland, Akron, and Mentor.
Health Risks for Sensitive Groups
Elevated ozone levels can cause health problems, particularly for those with pre-existing respiratory issues. Children, older adults, and people with conditions like asthma or heart disease are most vulnerable. The air quality is expected to be at its worst in the afternoon, when ozone levels are highest.
Tips to Protect Yourself
To minimize exposure to unhealthy air, residents in the affected areas are encouraged to:
Avoid strenuous outdoor exercise, especially during the afternoon when ozone levels peak.
Limit vehicle use, as cars contribute to the emission of harmful pollutants.
Refuel vehicles after sunset to reduce emissions that contribute to ozone formation.
Delay lawn care activities, which can also increase air pollution.
Stay Informed
Residents can track air quality updates at AirNow.gov or sign up for text alerts through enviroflash.info. It’s important to stay updated on air quality conditions and take precautions as needed.
Sunday’s air quality alert for Northern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania highlights unhealthy ozone levels, particularly for sensitive individuals. It’s crucial for residents to limit outdoor activities, especially during the afternoon, and to take steps to reduce emissions. Stay informed about air quality updates to protect your health and well-being.
