The eruption of Mauna Loa increases the potential for air quality hazards
Posted on November 28, 2022 at Editorial
HONOLULU – The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is advising the public to prepare for air quality impacts due to the eruption of Mauna Loa. As of November 28th at 2:00 PM HST, permanent air quality monitoring stations across the state report that air quality remains normal. However, the eruption may cause fog conditions, ash in the air and sulfur dioxide levels to increase and fluctuate in different parts of the state. Conditions are changing rapidly and poor air quality can be very localized.
Residents and visitors to Hawaii are advised to be prepared and aware of surrounding conditions and how they may react to poor air quality or fog. In case of voggy condition, the following precautions are advised:
- Reduce outdoor activities that cause shortness of breath. Avoiding outdoor activity and exercise during cold weather can reduce exposure and minimize health risks. This is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions including asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and chronic lung and heart disease.
- People with asthma or chronic respiratory disease should always have medication available. Prescribed daily medications must be taken on schedule.
- People experiencing health effects should contact their medical provider as soon as possible if symptoms develop, as respiratory conditions can rapidly deteriorate under severe sulfur dioxide conditions or illnesses.
- Stay indoors and close windows and doors. If an air conditioner is used, set it to recirculate. If you need to leave an affected area, turn on the car’s air conditioning and let it recirculate.
- Face masks (surgical, cloth, KF94, KN95, N95) do not provide protection from sulfur dioxide or sulfur dioxide. However, they can be effective in outdoor environments in reducing hazardous inhaled particles associated with ash fall and Pele hair.
- Do not smoke and avoid secondhand smoke.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
Vog and air quality updates are available through:
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