The Chungcheongbuk-do Institute of Health and Environment announced the results of the ozone warning system, which operated for a seven-month period from April 1 to October 31, 2026. As a result of the operation covering 11 cities and counties in the province, a total of 5 ozone advisories were issued, all of which went into effect on April 15 for Chungju-si, Jeungpyeong-gun, Eumseong-gun, Jincheon-gun, and Goesan-gun, respectively.

The ozone warning system is designed to promptly notify residents of high-concentration ozone occurrences to prevent health damage. An advisory is issued when the 1-hour average ozone concentration reaches 0.12 ppm or higher, a warning at 0.30 ppm or higher, and a critical warning at 0.50 ppm or higher. The criteria for lifting an ozone advisory is a 1-hour average ozone concentration of less than 0.10 ppm.

Unlike the previous year, the operation period was extended this year from 6 months (April 15 to October 15) to 7 months, and the criteria for lifting ozone advisories were also strengthened from the previous 0.12 ppm to 0.10 ppm.

Ozone is an air pollutant generated when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds emitted from automobiles and workplaces undergo photochemical reactions driven by sunlight. On days with strong sunlight, ozone concentrations can rise, requiring caution during outdoor activities.

High concentrations of ozone can irritate the eyes and respiratory system. In particular, children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory diseases need to exercise extra caution. When an ozone advisory is issued, it is advisable to refrain from outdoor activities and strenuous exercise, while daycare centers and schools should adjust outdoor classes or events.

Park Deok-gyu, head of the Fine Dust Analysis Division at the Chungbuk Institute of Health and Environment, stated, "To prevent health damage caused by ozone, it is important for residents to pay attention to air quality information and follow behavioral guidelines," adding, "In particular, sensitive groups such as children and the elderly are urged to refrain from outdoor activities when an ozone advisory is issued."

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