If you’re planning to get outside on Sunday—whether it’s a workout, yard work, or a long drive—think twice. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued air quality alerts across parts of California and Arizona, warning people to “keep windows and doors closed,” through Sunday, as dangerous levels of ozone pollution build, creating conditions that can hit your lungs as hard as a bad cold.
Where the Alerts Are in Effect
Two major regions are under warnings:
- Imperial Valley, California — including El Centro, Calexico, Brawley, and surrounding communities
- Phoenix metro area (Maricopa County), Arizona
In California, local air officials warn of “harmful levels of ozone pollution” until Sunday evening, with peak concentrations expected in the afternoon and early evening.
In Arizona, the situation is similar. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory through Sunday, warning that weather conditions and existing pollution will push ozone to levels that pose a health risk.
Why Air Quality Is So Bad Right Now
This isn’t random—it’s classic warm-weather smog season.
Ozone pollution (aka that hazy, lung-burning smog) doesn’t come straight from a smokestack. It forms when emissions from things like cars or industrial activity react in sunlight…