Gearing Up for the Ozone Season

Summer heat in South Carolina can result in an increase in ground level ozone, which results in unhealthy air. Ozone (O3 ) is formed when heat and sunlight mix with exhaust from cars, gasoline vapors and industrial facility emissions, creating unhealthy air that concentrates at ground level. Ozone can cause respiratory problems, and those with pre-existing breathing conditions may experience shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing. In an effort that began April 1 and will run through September 30, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is monitoring and posting ozone levels on its website, making it easy for people to track ozone levels in their area. 

To sign up for daily ozone alerts and for more information about the Ground-level Ozone Forecast and the Air Quality Index, visit SCDHEC.gov or Energy.SC.gov.