Drivers in four US states have been warned by authorities to steer clear of gas pumps ahead of rising temps
SPIKING localized pollution has concerned officials in four states.
They have asked residents to fill their gas tanks at regulated times to avoid further damage.
Drivers in Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, and Indiana received warnings about the gas filling as temperatures continued increasing to summer peaks.
The National Weather Service, or NWS, issued air quality alerts to residents in the four states on June 17, according to Newsweek.
The agency has detected unhealthy ozone levels in the air, which can pose serious health risks.
Drivers in dozens of counties across the states were asked to limit gas station visits until after 8 pm when temperatures cool.
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Officials also asked drivers to consider alternative modes of transportation, such as carpooling, biking, or taking public transit.
NWS officials release daily warnings as it reads increasing ozone levels in the breathable atmosphere.
Ozone pollution, or ground-level ozone, is considered a harmful pollutant when in the troposphere, the lowest layer of Earth's atmosphere.
More pollution is more readily captured in the living environment when temperatures increase.
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Warm and stagnant weather conditions can trap pollutants, preventing their dispersion and leading to higher ozone levels.
Many states in the American Midwest are currently experiencing higher-than-average temperatures.
The NWS said the registered ozone numbers "may approach or exceed unhealthy standards."
Increased ozone levels have been tied to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
These effects can be more severe in vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Officials at NWS asked residents in these categories to "please monitor your outdoor activity and check air quality readings."
Counties with ozone warnings
Counties across four states were advised to get gas after temperatures cool as of June 17. They are:
Ohio:
- Montgomery, Miami, Greene, Clark, Preble, Darke, Butler, Clermont, Hamilton and Warren
Michigan:
- Manistee, Leelanau, Grand Traverse, Berrien, Cass, Benzie, Wayne, Washtenaw, Macomb, Oakland, Livingston, St. Clair, Monroe, Allegan, Kent, Muskegon, Oceana, Ottawa, Mason, and Van Buren
Kentucky:
- Boone, Campbell, and Kenton
Indiana:
- Dearborn
Burning fuels is one of the leading contributors to ozone creation, according to Newsweek.
Passenger cars and heavy industry are the two leading causes of heat-based pollution, the publication said.
Several cities have maintained moderate air quality ratings since the NWS released the warnings.
As of June 19, areas in central and southwest Ohio have the worst daily air quality readings.
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Areas of California and New Mexico have registered air quality measurements in the "Unhealthy for sensitive groups" as of June 19.
However, the areas have not dispersed air quality warnings for non-vulnerable groups.