Traverse City, Mich. – Air quality in northwest Michigan is expected to worsen on Sunday, with ozone levels reaching unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has issued an Air Quality Advisory for several counties along the Lake Michigan shoreline, including Emmet, Leelanau, Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Manistee, and Charlevoix.
Details of the Air Quality Advisory
The advisory is in effect for Sunday, June 22, due to ideal conditions for ozone formation, including sunny skies, southwest winds, and temperatures in the 90s. These factors are expected to push ozone concentrations into the unhealthy range, particularly in the afternoon when ozone levels typically peak.
People with asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions are advised to limit outdoor activities, especially during the hottest part of the day. EGLE recommends avoiding strenuous outdoor exertion and staying indoors whenever possible to minimize exposure to unhealthy air.
Precautions and Recommendations
To help reduce ozone levels and protect air quality, EGLE suggests delaying vehicle refueling, avoiding the use of gas-powered yard tools, and skipping lighter fluid use on grills. These activities contribute to ozone formation and can make the air quality worse for everyone, especially those with respiratory issues.
Health Risks and Sensitive Groups
Ozone levels tend to be higher in Michigan’s lake-adjacent counties during the summer, and similar events in the past have led to an increase in emergency room visits and respiratory complaints, particularly among older adults and children. Residents in affected areas should take extra care, particularly if they are part of these sensitive groups.
What to Expect Beyond Sunday
The advisory remains in effect through Sunday evening, but residents are encouraged to continue monitoring real-time updates on AirNow.gov and stay tuned for potential additional advisories in the coming days.
Ozone levels in northwest Michigan are expected to be unhealthy for sensitive groups on Sunday, particularly in Traverse City, Charlevoix, and surrounding areas. People with respiratory issues should limit outdoor exertion, and everyone can help reduce ozone levels by following EGLE’s recommendations. Keep an eye on local air quality updates and be prepared to take action if needed.
