In the San Antonio area, an Ozone Action Day was declared by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) on June 13, 2024. The forecast for the next day indicated that atmospheric conditions were conducive to high levels of ozone air pollution. This marked the fourth Ozone Action Day in 2024 for the region.
Individuals who are particularly vulnerable, such as young children, older adults, and those with respiratory issues like asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis, should limit their outdoor activities during Ozone Action Days. People with asthma or breathing difficulties are strongly advised to stay indoors to protect their health and well-being.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to take voluntary actions to reduce pollution levels and promote a healthier environment. Some recommendations include refueling cars and trucks after 6 p.m., avoiding drive-thrus at restaurants by going inside instead, turning off vehicles instead of idling, adjusting thermostats higher by 2 to 3 degrees 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) urged everyone to participate in efforts to enhance air quality and conserve energy. For more comprehensive information on ground-level ozone, individuals can access Metro Health’s website for details.