22 August 2023
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – The City of Wichita said the area is under an Ozone Alert today.
It means residents and businesses are asked to take action to reduce emissions that create ozone. To see the current air quality in Wichita, click here.
Conditions that can cause high ozone levels include:
High temperatures
Increased amounts of ozone on preceding days
High ozone upwind
High-wind conditions
KSN Chief Meteorologist Lisa Teachman explained why we are seeing the Ozone Alert. She said it happens in Wichita but not often.
“Due to the stagnant high-pressure system overhead, we do have wildfire smoke aloft that is trapped. Another contributing factor could be larger metropolitan areas’ pollutants, such as Kansas City’s, being injected into our air due to the weak wind flow around this huge high. The pollutants are trapped and keep getting circulated around,” Teachman said.
The following actions can help keep ozone levels low:
Refuel when it’s cool (after 6 p.m. or after dark)
Walk or ride your bike to work
Delay mowing and paint projects
Stop fueling at the sound of the click
Take your lunch to work to avoid driving
Turn off your car – don’t idle more than 30 seconds
Postpone errands
If you are sensitive to pollution, consider reducing your activity level or shortening the time you are active outdoors.
To receive an email when an Ozone Alert is issued, click here.