Community Corner

Air Pollution Alert Extended for a Second Day

Ozone levels are expected to remain elevated in the Chicago-metro area through Wednesday, Aug. 21.

Written by Ron Kremer

You might want to hold your breath again on Wednesday (Aug. 21).

Why? The Illinois Partners for Clean Air and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency have extended today's Air Pollution Action Day Alert through Wednesday (Aug. 21), according to a joint news release issued by the two agencies Tuesday.

The two report air pollution levels in the Chicago Metropolitan area are expected to be at the “Orange” or “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category on the national Air Quality Index and likely will extend into Wednesday, Aug. 21. 

Current weather conditions and air quality monitoring data indicates ozone levels will be elevated through Wednesday (Aug. 21), posing a potential health hazard to sensitive populations, especially individuals with respiratory disorders, including asthma, as well as active children and older adults. 

Clean Air reps say sensitive individuals should take special precautions and follow their physician prescribed regimen. Businesses and residents in the region are asked to continue voluntary actions to reduce contributions to air pollution.

For more information and steps to help improve air quality, visit www.cleantheair.org.


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