Smog pollution is expected to reach unhealthy levels. Air quality alert issued for KC
The Kansas City area is under an air quality alert as smog pollution in the metro area is expected to reach an unhealthy level for the second consecutive day, according to the Mid-America Regional Council.
Moderate to high levels of ground-level ozone pollution, or smog, is expected, according to the agency known as MARC.
Pollution is formed when emissions from vehicles, lawn and garden equipment, and other sources react with heat and sunlight. According to MARC, warm, sunny weather, low wind speeds and a lack of rain increase the likelihood of poor air quality.
Health problems are a concern
Air quality is measured using an index that runs on a scale from 0 to 500. According to AirNow.gov, the higher the value, the greater the amount of air pollution and health concerns. An index below 50 indicates good air quality. When readings reach 100 or above, the air quality is unhealthy for people sensitive to pollution.
At 150, the air quality becomes unhealthy for some members of the general public and at 200, it is unhealthy for everyone.
The air quality index is expected to reach 126 on Tuesday in Kansas City, according to MARC.
Ozone pollution can cause wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing. MARC recommends reducing outdoor activities or scheduling them before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m.
Those with breathing or heart problems should keep their medicines close by and check on others who may have similar conditions. MARC said people with health issues may be more affected by ozone pollution than others.
How to reduce pollution
MARC offered these suggestions to help reduce pollution in the metro:
- Carpool, bike or use public transit on air quality alert days.
- Avoid mowing until the air quality improves.
- Avoid refueling your car on air quality alert days.
This story was originally published August 27, 2024 at 6:56 AM.
