Home / Environment / Ozone Alert Issued for PA Counties
Ozone Alert Issued for PA Counties
30 Jun
Summary
- Air quality alert for ozone issued for several Pennsylvania counties.
- High ozone levels expected due to sunny skies and warm temperatures.
- Vulnerable groups urged to limit outdoor activity during alert period.

An air quality alert for ozone has been declared for several counties in Pennsylvania, including Berks, Lehigh, Northampton, Dauphin, Cumberland, Lancaster, Lebanon, and York. The Department of Environmental Protection issued a Code Orange alert due to expected high ozone levels.
Mostly sunny skies and highs near 90 degrees today are forecasted to contribute to ozone buildup, particularly in the Susquehanna and Lehigh Valleys. Ozone pollution forms when airborne chemicals react with sunlight, with common sources being car exhaust and industrial emissions.
Sensitive groups such as young children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma are particularly vulnerable. These groups should avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the alert period. Residents and businesses are encouraged to voluntarily reduce ozone pollution by carpooling, limiting engine idling, and combining errands.