The state health department’s Air Pollution Control Division has started its daily air quality forecasts for the 2024 summer season. From May 31 to Aug. 31 each year, residents subscribed to the division’s “ozone frontrange” email list receive daily notifications sharing forecasts for ozone pollution.
If forecasts show that a specific day may exceed National Ambient Air Quality Standards, the email will say an “Ozone Action Day Alert” is in effect. If forecasts do not show elevated ozone pollution levels, the email will say there is no alert in effect. The division’s meteorologists share daily forecasts with the National Weather Service and the Regional Air Quality Council to reach as many Coloradans as possible.
“We are committed to empowering Coloradans with the necessary knowledge to help them make informed decisions about their health, exposure, and even contribution to ozone pollution,” said Michael Ogletree, the director of the Air Pollution Control Division. “We understand that people cannot always make changes to their daily lives and schedules, but it’s important that this information is only a click away.”
“There are many ways each of us can minimize our impact on summertime air quality. These ozone alerts serve as a great resource for helping us take timely, positive actions to reduce pollution,” said Mike Silverstein, the executive director of the Regional Air Quality Council. “Whether you sign up for RAQC text or email alerts, or you see a sign on the highway warning about high ozone, be on the lookout for ways to protect your health and improve our air quality this summer!”
In 2023, the division updated its daily email layout to make forecasts more clear, concise, and accessible for all Coloradans. The emails include links to information in English and Spanish on the division’s website. In addition to redesigning email forecasts, the division updated its website on ozone pollution and health. This resource can help answer many frequently asked questions.
The division monitors and forecasts several key air pollutants year-round for the entire state. In the summer, the division emphasizes monitoring ozone pollution in the northern Front Range area. However, all Coloradans can subscribe to receive email alerts. Only the “ozone frontrange” list receives daily emails in the summer. Subscribers to other lists will only receive an email if the division issues an air quality alert for that area.
There are more ways to stay informed on Colorado air quality. Follow CDPHE’s Air Pollution Control Division on Facebook and Twitter, or call the advisory hotline at 303-758-4848. Coloradans can also subscribe to alerts through the Regional Air Quality Council and learn more about protecting air quality through its ‘Simple Steps. Better Air.’ program.
Source: Dept. of Public Health and Environment
