Texas weather: Air quality alert issued for millions of Americans told stay indoors

The National Weather Service issued air quality alerts for parts of El Paso County in Texas.

The alert, which was issued at 2:44 p.m. on Friday, will remain in effect until 7 a.m. on Sunday. Residents of Western El Paso County and Eastern/Central El Paso County have been encouraged to cancel weekend plans and remain indoors as much as possible.

"The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has issued an Ozone Action Day for the El Paso Area, from 7 a.m. Saturday to 7 a.m. Sunday," the NWS said. The air quality dilemma comes just days after three Eastern Texas counties nearby Houston dealt with flooding.

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Over the recent Memorial Day holiday weekend, North Central Texas was rocked by severe thunderstorms.

Earlier in the month, over a thousand people in a small Southwest Central Texas county had to duck for cover as a tornado blew through the area.

Air quality alerts: Recommendations from the NWS

The NWS provided essential tips for dealing with poor air quality to ensure your safety.

Prioritize indoor stay

If you can, take refuge indoors, especially if you have respiratory concerns, underlying health conditions or belong to the senior or child demographics.

Curb outdoor exposure

When you can't avoid going outdoors, keep outdoor activities to the bare essentials. Reducing your time outdoors is the key.

Cut back on pollution-inducing activities

Be mindful of activities that increase pollution, like driving cars, operating gas-powered lawnmowers or using motorized vehicles. Limit their usage during air quality alerts.

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Banish open burning

Avoid burning debris or any other materials during air quality alerts. This contributes to worsened air quality.

Stay informed

Stay updated by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news outlet. Staying informed helps you make wise choices regarding outdoor activities during air quality alerts.

Focus on respiratory health

If you have respiratory problems or underlying health conditions, exercise extra caution. These conditions can increase your vulnerability to adverse effects from poor air quality.

By adhering to the advice from the NWS, you can enhance your safety during air quality alerts while reducing your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay aware, stay protected, and make your health a top priority.

Source: The National Weather Service