Air Quality Information for Hawaii Residents and Visitors

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Air Quality Information for Hawaii Residents and Visitors The Hawaii Department of Health reports that vog conditions may increase and fluctuate in various areas of the state as the eruption of Kilauea volcano continues. Vog is a hazy mixture of sulfur dioxide gas (SO2) and fine particles (PM2.5) emitted from an erupting volcano. If you are a Hawaii resident or visitor, stay tuned to and follow directions provided by Hawaii County public officials and emergency personnel. Here are several resources for learning about Hawaii air quality conditions: • Hawaii Interagency Vog Information Dashboard www.ivhhn.org/vog/ This site provides comprehensive information on vog and SO2. • Hawaii Short Term SO2 Advisory: http://www.hiso2index.info/ • Hawaii outdoor quality data https://emdweb.doh.hawaii.gov/air-quality/ • VMAP Vog Measurement and Prediction Project at http://mkwc.ifa.hawaii.edu/vmap/hysplit • AirNow information from real time PM2.5 monitors in Hawaii: https://www.airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=airnow.local_state&stateid=12&mapcenter=0&tabs =0 The Department of Health has advised residents and visitors to be prepared and aware of the surrounding conditions, and how they feel or may react to vog in the air Here are some precautionary measures to take in the event of vog conditions: • Reduce outdoor activities that cause heavy breathing. Avoiding outdoor activity and exercise during vog conditions can reduce exposure and minimize health risks. This is especially important for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or heart disease. • Stay indoors and close windows and doors. If an air conditioner is used, set it to recirculate. • Always keep medications on hand and readily available. Daily prescribed medications should be taken on schedule. • Contact a doctor as soon as possible if any health problems develop. • Do not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke. • Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. • Have family emergency plans prepared and ready. .

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