El Paso, Texas – Drivers in El Paso could face hazy skies and rising health risks Sunday as a 96°F heat spike triggers an ozone pollution alert.
According to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, an Air Quality Alert is in effect from 6 a.m. Sunday to 6 a.m. Monday, warning residents across Downtown El Paso, Fort Bliss, Socorro, and the Upper Valley to limit outdoor activity, especially for children, seniors, and those with respiratory issues.
High ozone levels will develop due to stagnant conditions and summer-like heat building across western Texas. Officials urge residents to carpool, limit vehicle use, and avoid fueling during daylight hours to reduce emissions. Use of public transit and biking is recommended, particularly along I-10 where traffic is heaviest.
Sunday’s forecast calls for increasing clouds and a high near 96°F, followed by a 40% chance of thunderstorms after sunset. Winds will remain mild out of the south.
By Monday, rain chances continue, with another round of scattered thunderstorms possible and highs near 88°F. Gusty winds could reach 20 mph Monday night.
Looking ahead, El Paso enters June under a hot, dry dome. Tuesday and Wednesday both bring highs in the low to mid-90s with mostly clear skies. The next rain chance doesn’t return until Tuesday night with a slight 20% chance of storms.
The week wraps up Thursday and Friday with sunny skies and highs approaching 98°F, making it one of the hottest stretches so far this season.
Air quality advisories may continue if high ozone persists. Stay tuned for additional updates through early next week.
