
Phoenix residents have to deal with some noticeable air pollution over the weekend.
Valley air-quality officials have prohibited the burning of wood in residential fireplaces, chimneys and outdoor fire pits due to high levels of soot in the air. These restrictions will be in place Saturday through Monday.
Anyone hoping for a weekend bonfire is out of luck. On Friday, Maricopa County declared a “no burn day” for the last days of 2017. This came as the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality issued a high pollution advisory for fine particulate matter levels. They are expected to exceed the federal health standard- a concern that should keep residents from lighting any fires or spending extended lengths of time outside.
Officials warn older adults and children, or those that suffer from heart or lung diseases, are most likely to be affect by particle pollutio and should be cautious when outdoors this weekend. Health officials have advised employers to implement plans to reduce travel, while the general public should drive as little as possible and limit outdoor activities and recreation.
For more information and updates, please visit the official website of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.