LAS VEGAS —Clark County has extended an air quality dust advisory through Tuesday, Aug. 11, as winds associated with thunderstorms in Arizona continue carrying dust into Southern Nevada. The dusty conditions are affecting the Las Vegas Valley for a second day and could cause air quality to reach unhealthy levels for some residents.
The advisory comes from Clark County Environment & Sustainability’s Division of Air Quality. Officials warn that blowing dust can increase particulate matter, commonly known as PM, in the atmosphere. These tiny particles can travel deep into the lungs. As a result, elevated levels can cause breathing problems or worsen existing heart and lung conditions.
Sensitive groups should limit exposure
People with heart or lung disease should take extra care while dusty conditions remain across the valley. Older adults, children and people who are especially sensitive to air pollution may also face a greater risk. Residents with health concerns should consider reducing strenuous outdoor activity until conditions improve.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency uses the Air Quality Index, or AQI, to communicate pollution levels and potential health concerns. When the AQI reaches 101 or higher, conditions may become unhealthy for sensitive groups. Therefore, checking current air quality before exercising or spending extended periods outside can help residents decide when to limit their exposure.
Residents can reduce their exposure
Several simple precautions can help keep dust outside homes and vehicles. Residents should keep windows and doors closed when blowing dust is visible. Using air conditioning can also help reduce the amount of outside air entering an indoor space. In addition, homeowners should check their air filters and replace dirty filters when necessary.
Outdoor activity should also be limited during periods of strong wind or heavy dust. Meanwhile, drivers traveling on unpaved roads can help by slowing down and avoiding unnecessary trips that stir additional dirt into the air. Off-road vehicles should only operate in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
Blowing dust can also affect drivers
Dust can create more than an air quality problem. Heavy blowing dust may suddenly reduce visibility on local roads and highways, particularly near open desert areas and vacant land. Drivers who encounter dusty conditions should slow down, increase the distance between vehicles and remain alert for rapidly changing visibility.
Residents can also help prevent additional dust by avoiding shortcuts across vacant lots or other unpaved areas. Vehicle traffic over dry soil can quickly send more particles into the air, especially when winds are already strong.
Clark County accepts dust complaints
Clark County encourages the public to report excessive blowing dust coming from construction projects, vacant lots or other facilities. Residents can contact the county’s dust complaint hotline at 702-385-DUST (3878) when they see significant dust problems.
Because conditions can change as thunderstorms develop and winds shift, residents should continue checking local air quality information throughout the day. Clark County provides current monitoring information and forecasts online. Residents can also receive daily air quality notifications through EnviroFlash, while the EPA’s AIRNow service provides current conditions and forecasts.
The Clark County dust advisory remains in effect through Tuesday, Aug. 11. Conditions could improve or worsen depending on wind direction, thunderstorm activity and the amount of dust moving into Southern Nevada.
Air Quality Information
Clark County air quality monitoring and forecasts are available through the county’s environmental monitoring service. Residents can also use EnviroFlash for alerts or AIRNow for current regional conditions.
Dust Complaint Hotline: 702-385-DUST (3878)
https://desaqmonitoring.clarkcountynv.gov
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