PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Pinellas County officials issued an Air Pollution Precautionary Advisory for Friday, May 15, 2026, warning residents of elevated ozone levels that could pose health risks for certain groups.
Environmental officials expect ozone pollution to reach high “Moderate” levels, with Air Quality Index (AQI) values ranging between 51 and 100.
However, pollution is projected to spike into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category, particularly during peak concentration times throughout the day. Particulate matter pollution is also forecast to hit the Moderate AQI range.
The advisory specifically targets individuals who are highly vulnerable to poor air quality.
READ: Tiny Traces Of Red Tide Pop Up In Florida’s Panhandle After Weeks Of Zero Sightings
According to the county’s release, “People sensitive to ozone and those with lung disease such as people with asthma, older adults, children and teenagers, and people who are active outdoors, should consider reducing prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion when the ozone concentration is elevated.”
The alert remains active through the end of the day on Friday. While air quality on Saturday, May 16, is expected to stay in the Moderate AQI range, officials noted that pollution concentrations should decrease compared to Friday’s peak.
County authorities stated they may lift the advisory early if weather patterns shift and the forecast improves.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox
