Summer Haze is Harmful

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (wthi) - The condition of our atmosphere continues to deteriorate under the oppressive heat and humidity of our present heat wave.

Particles of dust, smoke and other pollutants are trapped near the earth's surface by high pressure, causing an unpleasant haze to hang over us.

It's more than simple haze, it's toxic.

"Nitrous oxide comes out of the car's exhaust and combines with nitrous dioxide,” said Dr. Richard Kjounaas of the Indiana State chemistry department. “The oxygen atoms then react in the sunlight to produce ozone. Ozone then reacts in the sunlight to create other, even more dangerous pollutants called PAMS, which are especially dangerous, especially to the respiratory system"

Simply put, your car's exhaust, combining with sunlight is polluting the air and there's not much we can do about it.

Limiting your driving to early morning or late evening, if possible, and drive only when necessary will help with the pollution.