The American Lung Association has ranked the Bay Area in the Top 10 worst polluted metropolitan areas in the United States.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has issued a third consecutive Spare the Air alert for Wednesday because of unhealthy ozone accumulation forecasted.
The alert, prompted by triple-digit temperatures inland, light wind and vehicle exhaust combining to create unhealthy air conditions in the region, is the 11th of the summer season, according to the air district.
Smoke from the Soberanes Fire in Monterey County is also expected to impact the Bay Area’s air quality over the next several days, air district officials said.
Air district executive officer Jack Broadbent said in a statement:
“It’s important that residents take precautions to protect their health by avoiding outdoor activities, especially when they can smell smoke, and avoid driving to reduce overall pollution.”
Ozone, otherwise known as smog, can cause throat irritation, congestion, chest pain and worsen bronchitis and emphysema, among other health problems, according to the air district.
Residents are encouraged to carpool, bike, walk or take public transit to work instead of driving alone. A list of commute programs available can be found online at www.stacommutetips.org.
Last modified July 27, 2016 3:28 pm
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