Air Quality Advisory: California region under threat of unhealthy smog for most of Memorial Day

Ozone, often referred to as smog, can cause a variety of respiratory issues such as difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, and lung damage.Photo byNWS

The Imperial County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) has issued an air quality alert for the Imperial Valley, effective Monday, May 27, 2024, from 10 AM to 8 PM, due to elevated ozone levels.

High ozone concentrations, a predominant summertime pollutant, are expected to cause poor air quality during the afternoon and early evening hours. This alert warns residents about the potential respiratory health risks associated with ozone pollution, particularly for sensitive groups including children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Ozone, often referred to as smog, can cause a variety of respiratory issues such as difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, and lung damage. The severity of its effects can vary depending on the time of day and weather conditions. Factors contributing to high ozone levels include increased emissions of chemicals, higher temperatures accelerating ozone formation, and stagnant weather conditions leading to persistent pollution.