The skyline of Ontario, California, where air quality has reached alarming levels.
A recent study highlights Ontario as the most polluted city in the United States, with alarming levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Other cities in Southern California’s Inland Empire, including Bloomington and San Bernardino, also rank among the top five worst cities for air quality. The report indicates that traffic congestion and environmental factors contribute to the deteriorating air quality, leading to serious health risks for residents. Awareness and proactive measures are essential to combat this pressing issue.
Inland Empire is making headlines for all the wrong reasons! A recent study has found that four of the nation’s most polluted cities are right here in Southern California’s Inland Empire. Yes, you read that right! If you thought air quality was only an issue overseas or in far-off places, think again.
At the top of the shocking list is Ontario, which has snatched the title of the worst city for air pollution in the United States. Following closely are the cities of Bloomington, Huntington Park, San Bernardino, and Fontana, all making their mark in the top five. It’s a concerning statistic that’s hard to ignore, especially for residents who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Not to be overlooked, Glendora is also on this unfortunate list, sitting at No. 8. Other Central California cities like Visalia and Hanford have also made it into the top ten, proving that poor air quality isn’t just an Inland Empire issue.
The main villain in this grim story is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), a significant pollutant linked to serious health issues like lung and heart disease, as well as reproductive concerns. The Environmental Protection Agency points out that PM2.5 can come from various sources, including vehicles, construction sites, unpaved roads, and even wildfires. With these factors in play, it’s no wonder the air quality is suffering.
To add fuel to the fire, heavy traffic congestion on local freeways is making things worse. Picture this: countless trucks and buses all contributing to the pollution. And if you think it’s just a local problem, think again! Pollution from Los Angeles gets swept over into Riverside and San Bernardino Counties thanks to prevailing westward winds.
Los Angeles is experiencing the highest annual average of PM2.5 among the 25 most populated U.S. cities, leading to further pollution issues in neighboring areas. A significant part of this pollution comes from the shipping and logistics industry. Huge cargo containers arrive via ships that burn polluting fuels, only to be transported by diesel trucks across the Inland Empire.
The latest report shows the Inland Empire has the worst air quality in the country, with a low score of 17.03. This is a startling drop compared to nearby regions. In fact, only 54 days in 2023 had satisfactory air quality for residents, while 59 days were categorized as unhealthy for sensitive groups. Comparatively, the Greater Houston area came in second with a score of 28.36.
Recent events like wildfires in Los Angeles County may also play a role in worsening the air quality. The burning of buildings and materials can lead to toxic fumes that hang in the air longer than expected. On top of this, fireworks from Independence Day celebrations contributed even more to pollution, impacting the air quality in surrounding areas, including Glendora and Azusa, with hazardous levels reported the very next day.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District has been issuing advisories to mitigate the damage caused by air pollution. The detrimental health effects from exposure to PM2.5 can lead to significant issues like heart attacks and serious asthma complications. It’s a wake-up call for everyone living in and around these polluted areas.
As air quality remains a pressing issue, it’s important to take steps to protect your health. Stay indoors on particularly smoggy days, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and consider using an air purifier to improve the air you breathe inside your home.
The air may be bad, but it doesn’t mean we have to sit back and take it! Awareness is the first step to healing our environment. No one should have to compromise their health due to pollution, so let’s strive for a cleaner future together.
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