Dallas, Texas – Residents across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex should brace for unhealthy air conditions Wednesday as an Ozone Action Day takes effect. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality warns that stagnant weather and strong sunlight will push ozone levels into the unhealthy range for sensitive groups.
According to the National Weather Service in Fort Worth, the alert covers Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, Collin, and surrounding counties through Wednesday evening. Sensitive individuals, including children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions, are urged to limit outdoor activity during the afternoon and early evening, when ozone concentrations typically peak.
Transportation agencies and environmental officials recommend avoiding unnecessary driving, combining errands, using public transit, and keeping vehicles well-maintained to reduce emissions. Residents are also encouraged to reduce electricity use by adjusting thermostats and turning off unused appliances.
The TCEQ notes that even healthy individuals may experience throat irritation, coughing, or breathing difficulty during high ozone events. Outdoor workers should take more frequent breaks in shaded or indoor areas.
Ozone conditions could improve by Thursday, but forecasters warn additional alerts may be issued if hot, stagnant air lingers over North Texas.
