An Air Quality Alert is in effect for the Miami Valley through midnight Monday, with high ozone levels expected to persist. This alert includes Dayton, Springfield, Xenia, and several other counties.
The Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission and the Regional Air Pollution Control Agency warn that ground-level ozone may reach concentrations that can cause health risks, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
The alert covers the following counties:
Clark
Darke
Greene
Miami
Montgomery
Preble
Shelby
Health Risks and Precautions
Residents in areas like Troy, Beavercreek, and Sidney are urged to take precautions to reduce ozone pollution. These include:
Limiting car travel when possible.
Avoiding refueling vehicles before 8 p.m..
Reducing lawn mowing during daylight hours.
Exhaust from vehicles and gas-powered tools is a major contributor to ozone pollution, especially under hot, sunny weather conditions.
Air Quality Conditions in Late June
The sunny, stagnant weather typical of late June in southwest Ohio makes air quality worse during such alert periods. During the alert, people with asthma, heart disease, or other chronic conditions should limit outdoor exertion and keep their medications nearby.
The alert will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. Monday, and updated air quality guidance is available at Miami Valley Air.