St. Louis residents should be aware of poor air quality conditions forecast for Saturday, as ozone levels are expected to rise to unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. The National Weather Service in St. Louis has issued an Air Quality Alert, warning that children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions may face increased health risks.
“Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” Alert Issued
The alert, which applies to St. Louis County and surrounding metro communities, places Saturday’s air quality in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” (USG) category. This means people in at-risk groups could experience symptoms like:
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Chest discomfort
Increased asthma or allergy issues
While healthy adults may only notice mild throat irritation or coughing, the impact can be more serious for those with existing health conditions.
What Is Causing the Poor Air Quality?
The high ozone levels are caused by a combination of:
Strong sunlight
High temperatures
Vehicle emissions
Stagnant air patterns
These conditions create ground-level ozone, a major component of smog, which builds up during the afternoon hours when the sun is strongest.
Recommendations for At-Risk Groups
If you are in a sensitive group — such as someone with asthma, COPD, or heart disease — it’s important to take extra care on Saturday. Officials recommend:
Limiting time outdoors, especially between 12 PM and 6 PM
Staying indoors in air-conditioned environments
Avoiding strenuous activities like jogging or yard work during peak hours
Taking frequent breaks and drinking plenty of fluids if you must be outside
Parents should also monitor children who are playing outdoors and reduce their activity levels when possible.
Ways to Help Improve Air Quality
Everyone can play a role in reducing air pollution and ozone formation. Simple actions include:
Carpooling or using public transport
Avoiding unnecessary driving, especially during peak heat hours
Refueling vehicles in the evening
Delaying use of gas-powered equipment (like lawnmowers) until later in the day
Small efforts like these can make a noticeable difference in reducing pollution levels.
Areas Affected by the Alert
The air quality alert applies to the following:
St. Louis metro area
St. Louis County
St. Charles County
Surrounding communities in eastern Missouri
The Air Quality Index (AQI) may reach Orange Level, indicating unhealthy conditions for sensitive individuals.
What to Expect
| Time of Day | Ozone Levels | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Morning (Before 10 AM) | Moderate | Low risk for most groups |
| Midday (10 AM–2 PM) | Rising levels | Limit time outdoors if sensitive |
| Afternoon (2 PM–6 PM) | Highest levels | Avoid strenuous outdoor activity |
| Evening (After 6 PM) | Gradual decline | Resume light outdoor activities |
With ozone levels expected to spike across the St. Louis area on Saturday, residents — especially those in sensitive groups — should take the alert seriously. While many may only feel mild discomfort, those with respiratory or heart conditions could face real health risks. Staying indoors during the hottest part of the day and taking simple steps to reduce emissions can help protect your health and contribute to cleaner air across the region.
