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Ozone is a serious health hazard, especially to active children (who spend much of the summer playing outdoors) and those with respiratory illnesses such as asthma. Active adults of all ages who work or exercise vigorously outdoors have a higher risk than those who are less active. In general, as concentrations of ground-level ozone increase, more and more people experience unhealthy affects: respiratory inflammation, reduced lung function, compromised immune systems, damage to lung cells, aggravated emphysema and bronchitis, even permanent lung damage. When ozone levels are high, everyone should be concerned about exposure.
Ozone is formed from the interaction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and sunlight. These pollutants come from vehicle exhaust, fuel powered equipment, industry, and natural sources. The D-FW region is in non attainment for ozone. To attain the National Ambient Air Quality Standard of 75 ppb for ozone, the 3-year average of the fourth-highest ozone concentrations measured at any monitor within the area over each year must not exceed 75 ppb. For more information about ozone in North Central Texas, please visit the North Central Texas Council of Governments ozone webpage.
How can we reduce ozone? Visit our Tips & Tools section.
If you would like to receive notices for air pollution watch and warning days, along with a subscription to a monthly air quality newsletter, you can sign up here.
Air pollution notices are sent for Orange and Red days when ozone levels begin to reach the limits of the ozone standard.
| Good | Moderate | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
Unhealthy | Very Unhealthy | Hazardous |
