Virginia DEQ issues air-quality warning for Richmond region July 29

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality issued a Code Orange/Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups air quality warning for Metro Richmond at 3 p.m. July 29.

The warning is based upon the estimated Air Quality Index in the region, which is derived from the current ground-level ozone concentration levels.

Active children and adults should limit or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities through sunset, according to the agency, while people unusually sensitive to air pollution, especially those with heart or lung disease (including asthma), should avoid strenuous outdoor activities through sunset, take more breaks, and do less-intense activities.

People with asthma should follow their asthma action plans and keep quick-relief medicine handy, according to the agency.

DEQ officials also recommend that people take these voluntary steps:

• avoid unnecessary car trips and combine errands;
• share a ride or use public transportation;
• limit or halt use of gasoline-powered lawn equipment and solvents;
• avoid excessive engine idling;
• telecommute;
• conserve electricity;
• avoid burning yard debris or brush.

Code Orange conditions will continue into the evening Tuesday.

The air quality forecast for July 30 is Code Yellow/Moderate for ozone in the Richmond area.

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