Columbus, Ohio – Air quality across Central Ohio has dipped into unhealthy territory Sunday, prompting officials to issue a health alert for Columbus, Newark, and surrounding areas through midnight.
According to the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, fine particulate pollution has reached levels classified as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” in Franklin, Delaware, Fairfield, and Licking counties. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions, as well as children and active adults, are advised to limit prolonged outdoor activity.
The alert, issued just after noon Sunday, comes amid stagnant weather conditions that have allowed pollutants to build near the surface. Residents in affected cities like Downtown Columbus, Pickerington, and Lancaster are urged to stay indoors when possible and avoid strenuous activity outside.
Officials also recommend using air purifiers indoors, keeping windows closed, and checking local air quality conditions at morpc.org/airquality.
While the alert expires at midnight, another round may follow if poor dispersion conditions persist into Monday. Residents should stay tuned to local advisories.
