Kansas City Ozone Alert Marks Smoggiest Summer Since 2018

An ozone alert was issued in Kansas City on Tuesday, 6/20, for the ninth time in June, signifying the most polluted summer for the area since 2018, which had ten ozone alerts in the month of June.

Continue reading to learn more about the health and environmental effects of ozone and what to do during an ozone alert from Camfil’s air quality experts.

What is Ozone?

Ozone (O3) is a gas molecule made of three oxygen molecules that occurs naturally in small amounts in the earth’s upper atmosphere and is less chemically stable than the form of oxygen that we breathe (O2). Ozone in the stratosphere protects us from harmful UV sunlight, but when it forms at ground level, it poses a severe risk to human health and causes significant damage to ecosystems.

Where Does Ground-Level Ozone Come From?

Ground-level ozone is formed at ground level when certain pollutants undergo chemical reactions in the presence of sunlight. Pollutants commonly involved in the formation of ozone include nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can come from cars, power plants, industrial boilers, refineries, chemical plants, and other pollution sources.

Though high ozone levels can occur during any season, it is most likely during hot, sunny weather in the summer. It is also important to note that ozone can be carried long distances on the wind to rural areas where air quality is generally good and ozone is less likely to form.

What Health Issues Does Ozone Cause?

Ozone is...

Read Full Story: https://cleanair.camfil.us/2023/07/14/kansas-city-ozone-alert-marks-smoggiest-summer-since-2018/

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