The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Lane Regional Air Protection Agency issued an air quality advisory for the Willamette Valley, including Philomath, that will begin Saturday and will remain in effect until 10 p.m. Monday due to elevated ozone pollution levels.
The smog advisory encompasses a wide area, including the Portland metro area and eastern Lane County in addition to the Willamette Valley as officials expect ozone pollution to reach levels that could be unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Health officials are particularly concerned about impacts on children, pregnant people, older adults and those with heart disease or respiratory conditions. Those groups are advised to limit outdoor activities when pollution levels are high.
“Smog irritates the eyes, nose and lungs, and contributes to breathing problems,” according to the advisory, adding that residents experiencing worsening symptoms should consult their health care provider.
To help reduce pollution during the three-day stretch, officials recommend residents limit driving by using public transit or carpooling, avoid unnecessary engine idling and refuel vehicles during cooler evening hours. They also suggest postponing yard work with gas-powered equipment and delaying painting or aerosol spray projects.
Ozone forms when hot temperatures and low winds combine with pollution from vehicles, gas-powered engines and chemicals found in paints and aerosols. The pollutants react with sunlight and heat to create ozone and haze.
Pollution levels typically peak during afternoons and early evenings as ozone increases throughout the day with sun exposure. Air quality monitors may show acceptable levels in the morning before jumping to unhealthy readings later in the day.