Denver, Colorado – Hot, stagnant air is expected to push ozone levels into unhealthy territory for sensitive groups across the Denver metro and Front Range through 4 p.m. Thursday, prompting health officials to issue an Ozone Action Day Alert.
According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, residents in Denver, Boulder, Broomfield, Douglas, Jefferson, western Arapahoe, western Adams, Larimer, and Weld counties should reduce gas and diesel vehicle use and limit outdoor activity, especially for those with asthma, lung disease, or for children and older adults.
What to Expect
Air quality is expected to worsen on Thursday as winds calm and temperatures rise, creating ideal conditions for ground-level ozone to form. The alert recommends staying indoors during the peak afternoon hours and postponing outdoor activities like lawn mowing or fueling vehicles until after 4 p.m. to help reduce pollution.
Health Impacts
Health impacts may include increased respiratory symptoms and breathing discomfort, particularly for sensitive individuals. People in the affected areas should be cautious, especially during the afternoon when ozone levels are expected to be highest.
What You Can Do
To help protect your health, residents are encouraged to check real-time air quality conditions and learn how to help reduce pollution at colorado.gov/airquality. Sensitive individuals should avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the Ozone Alert period.
Outlook and Updates
The alert may be extended if poor air quality persists. Officials will provide updates on the conditions Thursday afternoon.
If you’re in the Denver or Fort Collins area, be aware of the Ozone Action Day Alert through Thursday. Protect your health by limiting outdoor activities, especially during the afternoon when air quality is expected to be at its worst.
