Air quality warning issued Sunday for some counties in Central Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio – An air quality warning was issued for some counties in central Ohio on Sunday because ground-level ozone pollution could be harmful to sensitive groups of people.

Pollution levels in Franklin, Fairfield, Delaware and Licking counties are expected to reach an air quality index of 101. Sensitive groups such as active children, the elderly and people with asthma and COPD are more likely to experience an increase in the number and severity of symptoms during an air quality warning.

On Sunday, a high pressure system will form over the state, skies will be mostly sunny and temperatures around 95 degrees will increase ozone formation. Light winds will carry pollutants and hinder their spread in central Ohio, according to the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission.

This is the first air quality warning of the season.

What is the air quality index?

The AQI scale is the Environmental Protection Agency’s index for reporting air quality and ranges from 0 to 500. The higher the AQI value, the greater the health risk.

When the AQI value is above 100, the air quality is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. The MORPC then issues an air quality alert.

The AQI on Sunday is expected to be 101, and the areas affected by the warning – Franklin, Delaware, Fairfield and Licking counties – are expected to experience pollution levels that are harmful to sensitive groups.

Active children, the elderly, and asthma and COPD patients are more likely to experience an increase in the number and severity of symptoms when an air quality warning is issued.

To reduce the risk of health problems, sensitive groups are strongly advised to limit their outdoor activities or postpone outdoor activities until the morning. People with respiratory problems should consult their doctor.

What measures should you take?

On days with an air quality alert, MORPC recommends taking action to improve air quality. The majority of particulate pollution comes from vehicle exhaust and combustion activities.

• Explore different commuting options such as carpooling
• Turn off the engine instead of idling your vehicle to reduce vehicle emissions.
• Avoid burning wood, leaves and other materials on alert days and learn about best practices for burning wood.
• Avoid mowing the lawn or using other gas-powered lawn equipment on an air quality alert day. Longer grass in your yard is good for air and water quality.

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