Rillito, AZ – Residents in the Rillito area of Pima County are being urged to take precautions as a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for dust goes into effect Wednesday, February 4, 2026, due to elevated levels of particulate matter.
According to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), the advisory is being issued for PM10, a coarse dust particle commonly generated by wind, vehicle traffic on unpaved roads, construction activity, and dry desert conditions. PM10 particles can irritate the lungs and worsen respiratory conditions, especially for children, older adults, and people with asthma or heart disease.
The advisory applies specifically to Rillito, a community north of Tucson in Pima County, but air quality impacts may be noticed in surrounding areas depending on wind conditions. ADEQ officials say hourly air quality forecasts will be closely monitored throughout the day.
During a High Pollution Advisory, residents are encouraged to:
- Limit outdoor physical activity, especially during peak dust hours
- Avoid driving on unpaved roads when possible
- Postpone construction or landscaping that could generate dust
- Use dust control measures such as watering exposed soil
PM10 pollution is most common during dry, windy conditions in Southern Arizona and can spike quickly, even without visible dust clouds.
Residents can track real-time air quality conditions through ADEQ’s Air Quality Index (AQI) tools and local weather updates. Those experiencing coughing, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort are advised to reduce exposure and seek medical guidance if symptoms worsen.
