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Ozone Warning for Wednesday, July 16th
Posted by Henry Scott on July 15, 2008
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has forecast an Air Quality Action Day for tomorrow based on ozone levels that will be unsafe for sensitive people. This was announced in today’s South Bend Tribune (LINK).
I’ve lived in South Bend for several years now and have been aware of several such forecasts, yet I’ve been amazed each time by the lack of public outcry. Think about it: it will be a beautiful day, but many won’t be able to enjoy it due to poor air quality. I’ll still commute by bicycle, but I won’t do any extra riding for pleasure.
More people cycling and walking would be a great way to avoid days like this in the future, and I’m pleased that several bicycle-friendly initiatives are underway in the Michiana area. On the other hand, I still see lots of development with no provisions for bicycles and pedestrians. Grape Rd and Main St in Mishawaka are grotesque examples of urban planning that are not only car-centric, but essentially preclude alternative transportation modes.
I’m sad to see that a similar model appears to be in effect for South Bend’s Erskine Village. From what I’ve been told, the initial description was of a pedestrian-friendly walking mall. Yet what I’ve seen develop is a sprawling concrete jungle with little or no provisions for bicycles. This is particularly sad given the large number of people living within a very short distance — most are likely to drive, rather than walk or bike, even when they just want to enjoy a bagel and cup of coffee at Panera Bread.
I’m sorry for the negative nature of this post, but I’m struck by the depressing irony of not being able to enjoy a nice bike ride tomorrow due, largely, to the overuse of personal automobiles and bad urban planning… when bicycles should be a key part of the solution.
Adam Bee said
That is really messed up. I wonder if it is just based on weather predictions, or what?
You’d think this w3ould really wake people up. Who would’ve thought that good ol’ South Bend and LA have so much in common?
Henry Scott said
Looks like the warning will still be in effect tomorrow (Thursday).
Adam: I’m not positive, but I suspect such forecasts are based on weather predictions coupled with known patterns in the usage of ozone-generating equipment and materials.
It is currently both hot and humid, which tends to increase energy demands, and accordingly, ozone production. Furthermore, there is a very large high-pressure system over the Midwest; such systems inhibit atmospheric circulation, which usually helps to dilute the pollution in urban areas. Basically, we wallow in our own filth during periods of high pressure…
Paul Taylor said
Like Henry, I continue to do my daily commute (6-miles each way), regardless of the ozone level. I have never read that ozone causes permanent damage to my body, since I am in relatively good health, for a 68-year old.
Has anyone read of any studies showing that such exercise is causing me a long term health problem?
Adam Bee said
Wow, I would not have guessed you’re that old! The Carl that I see sometimes at Outpost Sports is 80 and still hella fast, by the standards of any age. There must be something about cycling that keeps you guys young.
Yeah, I’ve been doing hard distance rides these past couple of days–is ozone just a problem for those with pre-existing trouble, or does it cause problems even for normally healthy folks? I suppose I should just go look it up myself…