Thursday, May 24, 2007

Georgia Fires Yield Hazy Morning For Lawrenceburg

   Fires burning unchecked in the State of Georgia were to blame for a haze that settled over the Middle Tennessee area Wednesday morning.

   Authorities reported that enhanced ozone formation and moderate southerly winds were responsible for transporting the increased number of pollutants into the local atmosphere. High levels of humidity served to compound the problem. The humidity level allowed increased production of pollutant particles within the air.

   All these conditions prompted authorities to issue an air quality alert of “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” Those suffering from asthma and other sensitivities were warned to take precautions when venturing outdoors.

   When such conditions rule, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends discontinuing strenuous outdoor exercise. Instead, the agency recommends exercising in the early morning or late evening hours when ozone levels are at their lowest. Such conditions are especially dangerous for young children, elderly, and those in poor health.

   By afternoon Wednesday, continued winds had allowed the majority of the pollutants to be eliminated from the area. During the remainder of the week air quality conditions are expected to be much improved.