Code Orange smog alert for Saturday

By Alexis Stevens

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Even without those commuting to and from work, the air quality in the Atlanta area is expected to be poor Saturday. A code Orange smog alert has been issued.

Enlarge photo

Chris Dunn, cdunn@ajc.com Hot weather and large numbers on the road create the ideal conditions for smog.

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"Smog loves hot, sunny weather," said Kevin Green, executive director of the Clean Air Compaign.

Temperatures have reached the middle 90s this week, and no break in the heat is expected until at least the middle of next week, WSB-TV Meteorologist Brad Nitz said.

That's bad news for young children and older adults, as well as those who suffer from respiratory conditions, such as asthma, Green said. But it's a chance for the rest of us to do our parts to avoid contributing to the problem, he said.

Green offered the following suggestions:

• If you have drive, try to combine errands and limit trips
• Check your vehicles for leaking gas caps, and try to fuel up after 6 p.m.
• Don't idle your vehicle for long periods of time
• Consider an electric gas mower, rather than a gas-powered one

There is a 20 percent of rain for Saturday and Sunday, Nitz said Friday afternoon. The chance of rain will increase to 30 percent by Tuesday, he said.

The heat index will make it feel between 100 and 105 degrees during the hottest part of the afternoons this weekend, Nitz said.