Ozone action day declared for Saturday
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment has declared today another ozone action day in the Ann Arbor area, the second one in a row.
Pollutants are expected to be in the unhealthy range and could cause respiratory problems for sensitive people.
Hot days with low winds are particularly conducive to ozone formation. Today's forecast calls for a high in the low to mid-90s with a heat index near 100.
Ozone forms primarily from reactions between volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. These reactions depend on the presence of heat and sunlight.
To avoid worsening the problem on an ozone action day, residents are asked to:
- Try to avoid refueling. If you need to refuel on an ozone action day, fill up in the evening when the weather is cooler and don’t “top off” the tank.
- Reduce automobile use. Plan to carpool, use public transit, or walk to work.
- Avoid mowing the lawn with gasoline-powered equipment.
- Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid.
The ozone action day is in effect in Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St Clair, Washtenaw and Wayne counties.
For updated weather conditions and forecasts throughout the day, visit AnnArbor.com's weather page.
Comments
Macabre Sunset
Sat, Jul 2, 2011 : 8:29 p.m.
I agree with most of this, but I think closing the Mexican restaurants that serve bean burritos was bit over the top.
Brad
Sat, Jul 2, 2011 : 5:17 p.m.
"•Avoid using charcoal lighter fluid" Not to worry. I have declared today to be a "BBQ action day", so you are free to use your lighter fluid as necessary.
Moonmaiden
Sat, Jul 2, 2011 : 2:53 p.m.
Well, my son is happy. He called, right before going back to bed, to inform me he can't cut my lawn today because of the "Ozone Action Day". He hung up before I could remind him I have a rotary mower and trim with clippers. Oh, well, I need the exercise . . .
Jake C
Sat, Jul 2, 2011 : 2:37 p.m.
xmo: If you read the article, the problem is "Pollutants are expected to be in the unhealthy range and could cause respiratory problems for sensitive people." It's not exactly a dramatic request, it's just saying if you are able to wait a day or two to fill up your gas tank, or mow your lawn, or drive around town, you'll help reduce the pollutants in the air for people with Asthma and other respiratory issues.
David Briegel
Sat, Jul 2, 2011 : 2:31 p.m.
xmo, Please explain how more pollutants in the atmosphere will make life better? Especially for those with respiratory problems. Explain how you have adapted.
xmo
Sat, Jul 2, 2011 : 11:59 a.m.
What problem are they talking about? "To avoid worsening the problem on an ozone action day," The problem for Humans or the Planet? It does really matter both can adapt!
John B.
Sat, Jul 2, 2011 : 5:14 p.m.
Being selfish is a big part of what's wrong with our Republic.