Ozone is a gas and the main component of smog. The team also considers the likelihood of ozone transport from other areas and expected emissions from regional sources. The Clean Air Coalition's meteorology team is led by meteorologists from the State of Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and includes meteorologists from AIR, Inc., Horizon Environmental, Detroit Edison and General Motors. Ozone can irritate mucous membranes and cause coughing, choking and impaired lung functions with prolonged exposure. Children, the elderly and people with bronchial conditions are apparently at risk.
Ozone is formed when pollution from cars, trucks, industry and other sources combines in sunlight.
Because ozone formation relies on weather conditions associated with warm weather, monitoring occurs during the spring and summer months, from April through September. When we prevent pollution by making slight modifications to our driving, refueling and household maintenance activities, we can reduce ozone-forming pollution significantly. If you must refuel, wait until after dusk if possible. Don't top off your tank. This forces fumes back into the air.