State declares Air Quality Action Days for fine particles, ozone

Fort Wayne (June 28, 2023) – The level of fine particles in the air in Allen County has been forecast by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to remain high for Thursday, June 29 and Friday, June 30. The state agency also forecast high ozone levels for Thursday and Friday.

Weather conditions are expected to continue to move smoke from Canadian wildfires into our area.

IDEM’s forecast is based on data from ozone quality monitors located throughout the state. Air quality information for all counties can be found at www.SmogWatch.IN.gov. The state agency also had previously issued Air Quality Action Days for fine particles for Tuesday, June 27 and Wednesday, June 28.

Questions about air quality or the Air Quality Action Day designations should be directed to IDEM.

To help reduce fine particle levels:

• Walk, bike, carpool or use public transportation

• Avoid using the drive-thru, and combine errands into one trip

• Avoid using gas-powered equipment

• Turn off engines instead of idling

• Use propane rather than charcoal when grilling

Residents also can monitor air quality at AirNow.gov and view steps to reduce exposure.

IDEM recommends similar actions to reduce ozone. Residents also can conserve energy by turning off lights and setting the thermostat to 75 degrees Fahrenheit or above.

###