AIR QUALITY ALERT: ...PM-2.5 HIGH POLLUTION ADVISORY FOR MARICOPA COUNTY INCLUDING THE PHOENIX METRO AREA SATURDAY...

Forecast Discussion: 

A PM2.5 High Pollution Advisory is in effect for Maricopa County on Saturday.
Stagnant conditions and strong temperature inversions will hinder built-up pollutants from dispersing out of the valley. Levels are expected to be highest in the early morning and late evening hours as fireplace/firepit activity increases.

PM2.5 will remain elevated after Saturday with stagnant overnight conditions persisting. During this time of year, it is not abnormal to see an increase in particulate matter over the weekends as we approach the holiday season.

Currently, no rain is in the forecast. Conditions will remain dry for at least another week.

If you are concerned about air quality this weekend, we recommend using our hourly graphs above to help you plan out your day. Around midday, air pollution levels will be the lowest.

Fine particulate matter - also known as PM-2.5 - is an air
contaminant that can aggravate heart and lung disease conditions,
especially in older adults, children, and those with asthma. A
decrease in physical activity is recommended.

 Alert details

Air Quality Alert issued December 13 at 6:59AM MST by NWS Phoenix AZ

AQAPSR

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued a PM-2.5 High Pollution Advisory for the Phoenix Metro Area on Saturday.

This means that ongoing stagnant weather conditions combined with existing airborne fine particulate levels may result in local fine particulate concentrations that pose a health risk. Adverse health effects increase as air quality deteriorates.

Fine particulate matter - also known as PM-2.5 - is an air contaminant that can aggravate heart and lung disease conditions, especially in older adults, children, and those with asthma. A decrease in physical activity is recommended.

Consolidate your travel, reduce or eliminate fireplace use, refrain from outdoor burning, and avoid using gas-powered lawn equipment.

For details on this High Pollution Advisory, visit the ADEQ internet site at www.azdeq.gov/forecast/phoenix or call 602-771-2300.

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