NORTH LITTLE ROCK— A Particulate Matter Action Advisory has been declared for October 18, 2024, for central Arkansas. The Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment, Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ) recognizes that ambient air particulate matter concentrations in central Arkansas indicate outdoor activities may be unhealthy for active children and adults, and for individuals in sensitive groups. Health precautions include limiting prolonged outdoor exertion among active children and adults, and people with preexisting respiratory disease.
In cooperation with the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), DEQ has issued a “Code Orange” Air Quality Advisory for Particulate Matter, because of monitored concentrations above the 24-hour National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 35 micrograms per cubic meter of ambient air.
As the day progresses and warms, it is possible that the ground-level concentrations will decrease. Because particulate matter is visible and can be detected by the nose, sensitive individuals can assess their immediate environment.
To check the daily ozone forecasts for Arkansas, go to adeq.state.ar.us. To see daily U.S. ozone levels maps, go to airnow.gov.