Memphis, TN – Residents across Memphis and surrounding counties are being urged to take precautions as air quality levels are expected to worsen Thursday.
According to the Shelby County Health Department, a Code Orange Ozone Forecast has been issued for Thursday, impacting Shelby County in Tennessee, Crittenden County in Arkansas, and DeSoto County in Mississippi. The advisory, relayed by the National Weather Service, warns that ozone levels are expected to exceed federal health safety standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Sensitive groups — including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma — are advised to avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak daytime hours.
Health officials said the conditions are being driven by elevated ozone levels that may not be visible but can cause breathing issues, especially for vulnerable populations. Code Orange alerts are issued when air quality is considered unhealthy for those with preexisting respiratory issues or who are highly active outdoors.
Residents are encouraged to monitor real-time updates at www.airnow.gov and to follow local weather advisories. Officials said the alert will remain in place until ozone levels return to within safe EPA guidelines.
This is the latest in a series of air quality advisories seen this summer as heat and stagnant air continue to affect the region.
