ABQ Warns of Blowing Dust Saturday

The city of Albuquerque says there could be a “possible blowing dust event” tomorrow because of strong winds.

The full notice is below:

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT NOTICE REGARDING

BLOWING DUST

Issue time:  Friday, February 8, 2013 at 230 PM

The Environmental Health Department‘s Air Quality Division is notifying Albuquerque area residents of a possible blowing dust event Saturday.  Strong winds are expected with the passage of a cold front Saturday.  Blowing dust could begin during the late morning hours and last into the afternoon.  The Air Quality Division will issue an updated notice Saturday should blowing dust become a problem.

Blowing dust contributes to particulate pollution. People who are sensitive to blowing dust, such as those with asthma, chronic bronchitis and other respiratory and heart diseases, are encouraged to limit outdoor activity.  Children and older adults may also be affected by particulate pollution. Schools and senior citizen facilities may want to provide indoor activities to minimize exposure to elevated outdoor particulate levels.

During blowing dust events, the following actions are recommended, especially for individuals sensitive to particulate pollution: <<PRESS RELEASE FOR Wind Dust 2013Feb09.doc>>

• Keep windows and doors closed. If needed for comfort, use air conditioners or heating systems on recycle/recirculation mode.
• Limit your time spent outdoors.
• If symptoms of heart or lung disease occur, (including shortness of breath, chest tightness, chest pain, palpitations or unusual fatigue) contact your health care provider.
• Individuals with heart or lung disease should follow their health management plan from their health care provider. Asthmatic individuals should follow a prescribed asthma management plan.
• Avoid outdoor exercise.