Gary, Indiana – Sensitive groups in Northwest Indiana are being urged to limit outdoor activities as an Air Quality Alert remains in effect until midnight Wednesday night. Residents in Lake, Porter, Newton, and Jasper counties—including Gary, Merrillville, Valparaiso, and Rensselaer—face elevated ozone levels that may cause breathing difficulties and other health issues for children, older adults, and anyone with respiratory problems.
According to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM), ozone concentrations have reached unhealthy levels for sensitive groups across the region. The Air Quality Action Day means those at risk should avoid strenuous outdoor exercise and limit time spent outside, especially during the afternoon and early evening when ozone peaks.
Major roadways such as I-80, I-94, and the Indiana Toll Road are expected to see slowdowns as air quality worsens, and schools or child care centers may consider limiting outdoor activities. Residents are advised to keep windows closed, use air conditioning if available, and avoid burning yard waste or unnecessary vehicle trips to help reduce ozone formation.
This is the second ozone alert for the region this summer, highlighting ongoing concerns about air quality during warm, stagnant weather.
The Air Quality Alert will remain in effect until midnight Wednesday, with updated advisories possible if conditions do not improve. Check SmogWatch.IN.gov or airnow.gov for real-time updates.
