Smog alert issued for Central Ohio, sixth of 2016

The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission has issued the sixth smog alert of 2016 for Central Ohio.

There were two smog alerts in 2015 and zero in 2014, though some analysts attribute the growing number of alerts to tighter federal standards on what constitutes a hazardous atmosphere.

Elderly people should take caution today, in addition to those with existing breathing problems.

6/20/16: Sensitive breathers beware: smog alert issued for today

Consider enjoying the great indoors today.

Even though this weekend had some of the best weather Central Ohio has seen all year, it was hot today, and the air was dirty according to Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission.

An Air Quality Index of 105 means a smog alert was issued. The scale runs from 0 to 500, and anything over 100 means that people with asthma or allergies could experience discomfort. Anything over 150 effects the general population.

Last year there were two smog alerts, but today’s marks the third for 2016.

5/25/16: Smog alert issued for today

If you find today’s air quality less-than-palatable, you’re not the only one.

Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission issued its second smog alert of the year today, attributing the conditions to hot weather and tighter federal standards.

The new standards mean central Ohio could see far more smog warnings this year than in the past.

Ohioans with respiratory problems are encouraged to reduce prolonged or strenuous physical activity.

4/19/16: Monday’s smog alert was earliest ever for central Ohio

On Monday The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission issued a smog alert for Franklin county–the earliest such alert that’s ever been issued.

The MORPC said two factors were to blame: the first being tighter federal standards on what should be considered a “smog alert,” and the other being unusually hot weather for April.

Hot weather can exacerbate the effects of exhaust from cars and smokestacks, and Monday’s crazy 80 degree temperature created a perfect storm for a smog warning.

Expect to see more smog warnings that usual this year due to the new federal standards.

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