NOLA Ready, the city's natural disaster response preparation network has issued an alert for the municipality due to weather conditions causing heightened ozone levels. An air quality and ozone level alert is in effect for the Greater New Orleans region Friday from 6am to Midnight as amounts of ozone in the air could cause health problems for certain people.
Children, the elderly, people with respiratory diseases (like asthma), and adults who are active outdoors should reduce prolonged outdoor activities and exertion:
- Take more breaks and do less intense activities.
- Watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.
- Schedule outdoor activities in the morning when ozone levels are lower.
A moderate level alert also means taking action to reduce emissions to stem the formation of additional ozone emissions need to be taken. This includes:
- Drive less and make sure your gas cap is tight.
- Refuel your vehicle, mow grass and use gas powered lawn equipment after 6 p.m.
- Postpone work that uses oil based paint, varnishes and solvents that produce fumes.
- Use an electric starter instead of starter fluid to barbecue.
- Conserve energy in your home.
LDEQ says ozone levels are on the rise due to weather conditions such as calm or no winds. For the latest air quality and ozone information click here.
