A High Pollution Advisory (HPA) is issued when it is imminent or there is a high probability for ozone or PM levels to exceed the federal health standard. High Pollution Advisories encourage people to limit outdoor activities, reduce driving, and other activities that cause air pollution. A High Pollution Advisory may also alert businesses to implement their travel reduction plans. Depending on the severity of the HPA, a larger portion of the population may begin to experience health effects. The ensemble forecast will provide additional details on the expected severity of the HPA as determined by the forecasts AQI.

Prohibited Activities During HPAs

The following activities are illegal to conduct within areas Maricopa and Pinal Counties that are known as  “Area A” | See Map of Area A > 

• Use of an off-highway vehicle (including all-terrain or off-road recreation motor vehicles) on an unpaved surface that is not a public or private road, street or easement, except at designated locations and events where dust controls are in place
• Operation of leaf blowers (except in vacuum mode) by city, town and county employees and contractors (residents and private contractors within the area are discouraged from using blowers as well)
• Residential wood burning (except in EPA-approved wood stoves and fireplace inserts) unless it is the sole source of heat
• Burning recreational outdoor fires (except for cooking food or providing people warmth)