On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has declared an Ozone Action Day for the San Antonio area. This is the third such day of the year in 2024 and comes as a result of atmospheric conditions predicted to be conducive to high levels of ozone air pollution in the area.
Individuals who are at a higher risk of experiencing negative effects from air pollution, such as young children, older adults, and those with respiratory issues like asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis should take extra precautions during this time. It is strongly advised that those with asthma or breathing difficulties remain indoors.
To promote healthy air quality and reduce pollution levels in the area, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate in voluntary activities that can help reduce emissions. These include refueling cars and trucks after 6 p.m., avoiding drive-thrus at restaurants, turning vehicles off instead of idling, adjusting thermostats to higher temperatures from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., carpooling or using public transportation, and combining errands to minimize trips.
The City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (Metro Health) is urging everyone to take action to improve air quality and conserve energy for more information regarding ground-level ozone on their website.