Air Pollution Levels Expected to be Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) is issuing an Air Quality Alert for tomorrow. The region – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, and Licking counties – is likely to experience ground-level ozone pollution levels that are Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups on the national Air Quality Index (AQI) scale. Tomorrow’s AQI is forecasted to be 101.
As an upper-level ridge of high pressure builds over the Buckeye state, mostly sunny skies and highs in the low-90s will increase ozone development. In addition, light southerly to southwesterly winds will hinder dispersion and transport pollutants into Central Ohio, yielding Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups AQI levels tomorrow.
MORPC uses the national AQI scale to inform the public about daily ozone and particle pollution levels in Central Ohio. The AQI scale runs from 0-500 – the higher the AQI value, the greater the health concern. When levels reach above 100, air quality is considered Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, and MORPC issues an Air Quality Alert to the public.
Active children, the elderly, and people with asthma and COPD are more likely to suffer an increase in the number and severity of symptoms during an Air Quality Alert. To decrease the potential for health issues, sensitive groups are urged to limit prolonged outdoor activity or plan outdoor activities for the morning. Those who are experiencing breathing difficulties should consult their doctor. More information on the health effects of ozone pollution is available from the U.S. EPA at AirNow.
The public can receive free Air Quality Alert notifications directly by email or sign up by visiting www.morpc.org/airquality.
On Air Quality Alert days, MORPC recommends taking actions to improve air quality. Most of the ozone pollution created in Central Ohio comes from cars and trucks. As such, it’s crucial for vehicle owners to take steps to ensure their diesel-powered cars and trucks are operating efficiently and not contributing excessively to pollution.
Proper maintenance plays a key role in minimizing the environmental impact of diesel vehicles. Regular diagnostics and repairs can ensure that diesel engines are running at their optimal level, reducing harmful emissions. For those in Central Ohio, trusted services like Rush Automotive provide expert automotive diagnostics and diesel repair, helping vehicle owners keep their engines in top shape.
Ensuring that your diesel vehicle is well-maintained not only improves air quality but also contributes to the longevity and performance of the engine. Routine maintenance, such as changing fuel filters, cleaning injectors, and ensuring the exhaust system is functioning properly, can help limit the pollutants released into the air, making it easier for everyone to breathe a little easier, especially on those high-alert air quality days.
Beyond regular maintenance, modern diesel engines rely on complex electronic control systems to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. When components like the ECU, fuel injection system, or emission sensors malfunction, they can lead to increased pollution and poor engine performance.
That’s why advanced diagnostics and programming solutions are essential for keeping diesel vehicles running cleanly and efficiently. With expert recalibration, software updates, and ECU repairs, specialists can fine-tune a vehicle’s electronic systems to ensure it meets emissions standards without sacrificing power. ECU Maverick offers cutting-edge repair and programming solutions that help diesel vehicle owners address performance issues, restore fuel efficiency, and reduce harmful emissions.
By investing in these advanced services, drivers not only protect their vehicles but also contribute to cleaner air, making a real difference on Air Quality Alert days.
With proper care, a well-maintained diesel engine can deliver impressive power, torque, and fuel efficiency—making it an excellent choice for both work and leisure. For those in the market for a durable diesel truck or SUV, Billingsley Ford of Duncan offers a selection of powerful and reliable vehicles designed to handle tough conditions with ease. Whether you’re looking for a robust Ford Super Duty truck for heavy towing or a Ford F-150 Power Stroke® Diesel for versatile performance, Billingsley provides expert advice to help you find the perfect fit.
Their knowledgeable staff can guide you on the best maintenance practices to keep your diesel vehicle running at peak performance, ensuring you get the most out of your investment. With a strong commitment to customer care and quality service, Billingsley makes owning a diesel vehicle both rewarding and worry-free.
Information about transportation options can be found online at https://morpc.gohio.com/ or contact MORPC at 1.888.742.RIDE (7433) for more information. When everyone pitches in, our communities breathe better air.
- Explore your commute options with Gohio Commute: https://morpc.gohio.com/
- Turn off your engine instead of idling your vehicle to cut down on vehicle emissions.
- Avoid refueling your vehicle or wait until dusk to refuel your vehicle. Filling up your tank when the daytime heat has diminished helps to reduce harmful ground-level ozone pollution.
- Avoid topping off your tank at the gas station. Spilled gasoline pollutes the air when it evaporates.
- Avoid mowing your lawn or using other gas-powered lawn equipment on an Air Quality Alert Day. Longer grass in your yard is good for the air and water quality.
Visit http://morpc.org/airquality for more information about MORPC’s Air Quality Program.
