The first air quality alert of the season has been issued for southeast Michigan on Monday, June 29, according to the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), an organization that tracks air quality in the region.
“Warm temperatures and ample sunlight will mix with relatively light winds to allow surface-level Ozone to produce in the metro Detroit and surrounding areas,” said Alec Kownacki, a Meteorologist at the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
According to EGLE, pollutants are expected to reach the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range on Monday.
Local officials recommended strenuous outdoor activities should be avoided, especially by those with respiratory diseases such as asthma.
Activities to avoid when ozone levels are high include refueling vehicles or topping off when refueling, using gasoline-powered lawn equipment and charcoal lighter fluid.
What is the air quality index?
The AQI shows the outdoor air quality for public health. It features six color-coded categories, from good (0-50) to hazardous (301 plus). Michigan has already seen readings topping 1,400 in 2025.
The AQI takes into account five air pollutants:
Here are the ratings in the AQI:
What does an air quality advisory mean?
An advisory is called when two or more (or widespread) monitors are expected to reach or exceed the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG, Orange air quality index (AQI) threshold.
An alert is called when two or more (or widespread) monitors are expected to reach or exceed the unhealthy threshold.
What does PM2.5 mean on the air quality index?
This unit is used to measure the fine particulate matter in the air, such as smoke, dust, soot or dirt.
The “2.5” figure means particles are 2.5 micrometers in diameter or smaller, according to the EPA — that is 30 times smaller than the average human hair, which is about 70 micrometers in diameter.
What should I do when an air quality alert is issued?
According to Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services, here are some indoor methods to protect yourself from the pollutants outside:
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: First air quality alert issued for southeast Michigan this season
Reporting by Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press | USA TODAY Network
