Ozone season in North Texas began March 1 and lasts until November 30, which means as temperatures rise, we can expect a larger number of high-level risk ozone days. Ground-level ozone forms when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and/or volatile compounds (VOCs) combine with sunlight and intense heat—a harmful air pollutant that’s especially dangerous for people who have asthma or respiratory problems as well as young children. It’s not only important for high-risk groups to know about ozone, but everyone else needs to know about it, too, so they can help mitigate the problem.
When the Air Quality Index (often seen on local news and on weather apps) indicates weather conditions are going to create high-level-risk ozone days (those noted as Orange, Red or Purple), here are some steps everyone can take to minimize ozone:
- Conserve electricity
- Minimize vehicle idling
- Refuel after dusk
- Use sustainable ways to get around
- Use environmentally safe household products
More information: Your Ozone Season Guide (airnorthtexas.org)
