The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued a
PM-10 High Pollution Advisory for Friday September 2, 2022.
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for course particulate matter (PM-10) in Maricopa County. This HPA is due to particle pollutant levels expected to accumulate enough to exceed the federal health standard for PM-10. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality recommends that the general public limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.
Particulate matter is extremely small solid particles and liquid droplets that circulate in air. Particulate matter comes from combustion (cars, industry, wood burning) or dust stirred up into the air. High levels of particulate matter occur when air is especially stagnant or windy. Two types of particulate matter are measured by state and county agencies: PM-10, commonly called dust, and PM-2.5, commonly called soot. PM-10 refers to dust particles 10 microns or less and PM-2.5 to soot particles 2.5 microns or less.
Here is what you can do:
- Avoid activities that generate dust, such as driving on dirt roads.
- Stabilize loose soils.
- Eliminate fireplace and wood stove use.
- Avoid using leaf blowers.
- Use electric lawn and garden equipment.
- Drive as little as possible: carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit Share the Ride.
- Recreational off-highway vehicle use is prohibited during the advisory period.
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