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Texans Told to Steer Clear of Drive-Thrus as Air Pollution Spikes
9 Sep
Summary
- Millions in Texas warned to avoid drive-thru lanes due to high air pollution
- Air quality alerts issued in Texas, Washington, and Oregon for September 9th
- Pollution from wildfires and ozone levels pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups
As of September 9th, 2025, the National Weather Service has issued air quality alerts across several states due to concerning levels of air pollution. In Texas, an Ozone Action Day was announced for the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston-Galveston-Brazoria areas, urging residents to limit their exposure.
The warnings come as ground-level ozone and particulate matter concentrations are forecast to reach hazardous levels. In some regions, the pollution is being driven by drifting wildfire smoke. Authorities have cautioned that the poor air quality could have serious health implications, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with preexisting respiratory or heart conditions.
To mitigate the risks, the National Weather Service has advised the public to reduce outdoor activities, avoid strenuous exercise, and follow guidance for maintaining cleaner indoor air. Drivers have also been encouraged to avoid using drive-thru lanes, as prolonged idling can increase vehicle emissions and contribute to ozone formation.
Similar air quality alerts have been issued in Washington and Oregon, where wildfires burning in the region are expected to degrade air quality to unhealthy levels. Residents in the affected areas have been advised to stay indoors, use air filters, and limit exposure to smoke as much as possible.
