This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Politics & Government

Two Days Straight Of 'Spare-The-Air' Smog Alerts Issued

Rescheduling activities today and tomorrow is advised.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District issued air-quality alerts for today and Wednesday -- the third such "Spare the Air" smog warnings in 2012.

Ozone pollution in the Bay Area registered as unhealthy today, and the same conditions are predicted for July 11, officials said.

There is no free transit Wednesday, and the wood-burning ban is in place, they said.

Find out what's happening in Dublinwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Air district officials advise residents avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the days when air quality is unhealthiest.

Early morning hours, when ozone concentrations are lower, are recommended, they said.

“Air pollution we generate daily, caused mostly by driving, will combine
with high temperatures to create unhealthy levels of smog,” said Jack Broadbent, executive officer of the Air District.

Find out what's happening in Dublinwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The public is encouraged to commute by transit, bicycles or carpools,  or work from home if possible, to avoid air pollution that builds up and creates unhealthy smog during the forecasted high temperatures.


“Reducing the number of cars on Bay Area roads every day will help avoid unhealthy air quality,” Broadbent said,

Ozone, or smog, can cause throat irritation, congestion, chest pain, trigger asthma, inflame the lining of the lungs and worsen bronchitis and
emphysema, according to the Bay-area group.

Long-term exposure to ozone can reduce lung function, and ozone pollution is particularly harmful for young children, seniors and those with respiratory and heart conditions.

Smog is formed when volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides from motor vehicle exhaust, gasoline vapors, industrial emissions and household chemicals combine with oxygen in the presence of heat and sunlight.


Visit sparetheair.org or 511.org for more information about commute alternatives.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?