Because of high fine particulate pollution levels today (Feb. 5) in excess of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) health thresholds, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is recommending Iowans with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children limit prolonged outdoor exertion.
The EPA’s 24-hour health threshold for fine particles is 35 micrograms per cubic meter. As of noon Friday, fine particle levels averaged in the low 40s across Iowa, with readings of 44 in Davenport, 43 in Muscatine, 43 in Iowa City, 41 in Cedar Rapids and 43 in Des Moines.
According to the Iowa DNR, air monitors Thursday, Feb. 4 recorded 24-hour fine particle levels above EPA health standards at three locations in Davenport: 39 at Jefferson School, 42 at Blackhawk Foundry, and 41 at Hayes School.
The DNR reported levels above the 24-hour fine particle standard were also recorded two locations in Clinton: 38 at Rainbow Park and 41 at Chancy Park. In addition, 24-hour averages above the health threshold were recorded at Hoover School in Iowa City (39), Garfield School in Muscatine (37), Linn County Public Health (37), the Water Tower in Waterloo (40), and at Lake Sugema near Keosauqua (36).
Fine particles are emitted by vehicle traffic and other combustion sources, and are formed by chemical reactions in the atmosphere. Stagnant air masses do not allow the fine particles to disperse, and pollutant levels rise.
EPA’s national air quality map is available online at AirNow.
For the Iowa DNR news release on the health alert and fine particulate pollution, visit: www.iowadnr.gov
For additional information on fine particulate pollution and the QC region's brush with non-attainment designation by the EPA last year, CLICK HERE.
