North Texas has seen 14 days when smog reached unhealthy levels this year, according to the latest data. The region is down by one alert compared to this time last year, when 11 action day alerts were issued between April through July.
Smog Levels and Health Concerns
Smog that exceeds 70 parts per billion is considered unhealthy for small children, older adults, and people with respiratory conditions or disease such as asthma. The Environmental Protection Agency’s standard on ozone is set at a design value of 70 parts per billion.
Fort Worth’s air quality is expected to reach moderate levels of smog and particulate matter through the end of the week. Ozone levels are not expected to exceed 70 parts per billion, according to the state environmental commission’s forecast.
Breathing in ozone can lead to a variety of health problems, such as chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, and congestion. Poor air quality can also worsen respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
