Air Quality Alert Issued for Corpus Christi Area

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) are reporting elevated ozone and particulate matter levels across the Corpus Christi region due to warm temperatures, light winds, and residual smoke from burning activities in southern Mexico.

While most of the region may remain in the “Good” range, peak concentrations in the afternoon and early evening may push air quality into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range, especially in the southern coastal bend and inland regions. Sensitive individuals, including children, older adults, people with lung or heart conditions, and those active outdoors, are encouraged to limit prolonged outdoor activity.

In addition, a developing upper-level system over Texas may contribute to hazy conditions as smoke and volcanic emissions combine with low humidity and limited air movement.

People with lung diseases such as asthma and those routinely active outdoors for six or more hours a day may experience coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, headaches, eye and throat irritation, and nausea.

The Corpus Christi – Nueces County Public Health District will continue monitoring conditions and providing air quality updates.

Tips to Reduce Exposure and Help Improve Air Quality:

• Limit outdoor activity, especially in the afternoon and early evening.
• Postpone lawn mowing and avoid burning yard waste.
• Carpool or use public transportation when possible.
• Refuel vehicles in the late afternoon or evening and avoid idling.

How to Stay Informed:
To monitor the air quality for your specific area, visit https://www.airnow.gov/aqi  or https://www.corpuschristitx.gov/department-directory/health-district/air-quality-monitoring/

For media inquiries, contact Public Information Officer Cassandra Hinojosa at 361-826-2944 or cassandrah3@cctexas.com.