Fort Wayne, IN – Residents in Northwest Indiana are advised to take precautions as an Air Quality Action Day (AQAD) has been declared for Thursday. This advisory is due to expected high levels of ground-level ozone.
According to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM), ozone levels are forecasted to reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups, including the elderly, young children, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions. AQADs are issued when the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 100, indicating that air pollution levels are high enough to pose health risks. On such days, sensitive groups are advised to limit outdoor activities and avoid strenuous exercise.
Ground-level ozone, a key component of smog, forms when pollutants from vehicles, industrial facilities, and other sources react in sunlight. It can cause respiratory issues, aggravate asthma, and decrease lung function. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), another concern, can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, causing various health problems.
Residents can monitor air quality updates and take recommended actions, such as reducing driving and using public transportation, by visiting IDEM’s website. IDEM also advises using less gasoline-powered equipment and avoiding outdoor burning to help reduce pollution levels. For real-time air quality information, check SmogWatch.IN.gov.
