ORLANDO, Fla. – Air pollution in Central Florida are predicted at elevated level Friday causing environmental officials to issue a warning for some people to avoid being outside for a long period.
Air quality in Orange County and parts of Seminole County and Osceola counties are “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Quality Index.
The air quality forecast is updated everyday just like a weather forecast, said Renee Parker, air-quality supervisor at Orange County’s Environmental Protection Division.
The rating means that pollution levels are between 101 and 150, a good air quality is 0 to 50.
People including young children, and those with lung disease should avoid prolonged time outside, according to the EPA.
Air pollution in the orange happen about twice a year, Parker said. The Orange County Environmental Protection Division will issue an alert for everyone if air pollution levels go in the red. That hasn't happened since May 7, 2007. Parker said.
The recent drought and brush fires across Florida contributed to Friday’s air quality.
"We have had several weeks with hot, dry stagnant air,” News 6 meteorologist Troy Bridges said. “Today that air combined with exhaust from so many cars on the roads, we have dangerous breathing conditions for the very young and the very old."