Air Quality May Be Unhealthy for Some Through Thursday
The Ohio EPA is predicting that the air quality in Northeast Ohio will be unhealthy for some sensitive groups of people because of pollution.
Pollution in the air in Northeast Ohio may be a concern for those who have asthma, lung disease or older adults and children Wednesday, Thursday and possibly Friday this week.
The Akron Regional Air Quality Agency, the Cleveland Deptartment of Public Health and Welfare and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency are predicting the air quality will be unsafe for some sensitive groups of people through March 22.
The air quality index as of 5 p.m. March 21, was a 78, which is considered "Moderate." There are six ratings that range from "Good" to "Hazardous."
On Friday, the above organizations are predicting the quality will move from "Moderate" to "Unhealthy to Sensitive Groups."
"Unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion," according to a press release from AirNow. "Residents, businesses and local governments should voluntarily reduce activities that contribute to ozone air pollution. Be proactive by reducing or eliminating unnecessary motor vehicle trips, and consider carpooling or use public transportation. Consider setting your home or office air conditioning thermostat slightly higher."
The agencies that have issued the alert recommend that people wait until after 7 p.m. to do prolonged outdoor activities, like exercising and mowing the lawn.
Click here to learn more about the alert, how to reduce air pollution and more.