On Tuesday at 2:11 p.m. an air quality alert was reported by the National Weather Service in effect until 10 p.m. for El Paso and Teller counties.

The NWS informs, “Air Quality Health Advisory for Ozone.”

“Ozone concentrations could reach the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category within the advisory area Tuesday afternoon and evening. Ozone levels will improve overnight Tuesday night,” comments the NWS.

Guidance for air quality alerts: Insights from the NWS

When an air quality alert is in effect, following the NWS guidance is pivotal. Here are some simple tips from the NWS for safeguarding your well-being:

Prioritize indoor stay:

If it’s within your means, stay indoors, especially if you have respiratory issues, health concerns, or fall within the senior or child demographics.

Minimize outdoor exposure:

When you can’t avoid going outdoors, keep outdoor activities to the bare essentials. Reducing your time outdoors is the key.

Mitigate pollution sources:

Be conscious of activities that contribute to pollution, such as driving cars, using gas-powered lawnmowers, or relying on motorized vehicles. Curtail their use during air quality alerts.

No open burning:

Refrain from kindling fires with debris or any other materials during an air quality alert. Such practices only contribute to heightened air pollution.

Stay informed:

Stay updated by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news outlet. Staying informed helps you make wise choices regarding outdoor activities during air quality alerts.

Respiratory health caution:

If you have respiratory problems or underlying health conditions, exercise extra caution. These conditions can increase your vulnerability to adverse effects from poor air quality.

Following the recommendations from the NWS helps bolster your safety during air quality alerts, minimizing your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay vigilant, stay protected, and make your health the top priority.

Source: The National Weather Service