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EPA Posts Sampling Data from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita - EPA Releases Air Monitoring Data for Louisiana and Mississippi
Release Date: 11/22/2005
Contact Information: For more information contact the Office of External Affairs at (214) 665-2200.
Contact: Eryn Witcher, 202-564-4355 / witcher.eryn@epa.gov
EPA updated air quality monitoring data with particle pollution measurements from both Mississippi and New Orleans Oct. 15, 2005 through Nov. 7, 2005. Results show that measurements of fine (PM2.5) and coarse (PM10) particles from all locations were below EPA's health-based screening level for the general population (65 micrograms per cubic meter for PM2.5, 250 micrograms per cubic meter for PM10). However, for two sites, Dedeaux Road in Gulfport, Miss., and Klondyke Road, Long Beach, Miss., spikes were recorded in fine particles above the screening level established for sensitive groups (40 micrograms per cubic meter). These two monitoring stations were established to evaluate the impact burning debris has on nearby air quality. Elevated levels at these sites were reported for a total of eight days, with concentrations ranging from 58 - 43 micrograms per cubic meter. After each spike, fine particle concentrations dropped below health-based screening levels for sensitive groups.
For more information, visit: http://epa.gov/air/katrina/pm.html.
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