Air Quality Advisory Issued by Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department

Published on July 01, 2025

Overview

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) has issued an air quality advisory due to anticipated high levels of smoke resulting from fireworks displays scheduled for July 3 and July 4 in the City of Lincoln. This advisory aligns with the commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, by protecting vulnerable populations from environmental health risks.

Fireworks Schedule and Air Quality Impact

• Fireworks permitted from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 3
• Fireworks permitted from 8 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on July 4
• Expected peak smoke levels from the evening of July 3 through the morning of July 5

During this period, Lincoln’s Air Quality Index (AQI) often reaches unhealthy levels, particularly affecting children, older adults, and individuals with asthma, lung disease, or heart conditions. This situation underscores the importance of SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, emphasizing the need for healthy urban environments.

Weather Conditions and Health Risks

According to Gary Bergstrom, Air Quality Section Supervisor at LLCHD:

“The National Weather Service forecasts a chance of rain with south winds at 10 to 14 mph on the evenings of July 3 and 4. These breezy conditions are expected to help disperse smoke, potentially reducing the severity and duration of poor air quality.”

Exposure to smoke can trigger asthma attacks, exacerbate chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and cause chest pain in individuals with heart disease, highlighting the need for public health vigilance in line with SDG 3.

Health Guidance Based on Air Quality Index Levels

1. Orange Category (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups):
   • Individuals with higher sensitivity should monitor for symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain.
   • Those experiencing symptoms should seek medical care promptly.
   • People with asthma are advised to follow their asthma action plans and keep quick-relief medication accessible.
2. Red Category or Worse (Unhealthy for Everyone):
   • All individuals should adhere to the above health precautions.

Protective Measures for Vulnerable Populations

• Limit outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality.
• Keep windows and doors closed to reduce indoor smoke infiltration.
• Use HEPA filters to improve indoor air quality.
• Operate vehicle air systems on recirculate mode to minimize exposure.

These recommendations support SDG 3 by promoting health and well-being through environmental risk mitigation.

Resources for Air Quality Monitoring

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about current air quality conditions by consulting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Fire and Smoke Map available at fire.airnow.gov. Additionally, the EPA offers the AirNow and SmokeSense smartphone applications for real-time air quality tracking and guidance.

Conclusion

The LLCHD’s air quality advisory serves as a critical public health measure that aligns with multiple Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). By following the recommended precautions and utilizing available resources, residents can help mitigate health risks associated with temporary air pollution from fireworks.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article focuses on health risks related to poor air quality caused by fireworks smoke, addressing respiratory and heart conditions.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • It discusses urban air quality management and community health advisories in Lincoln, emphasizing sustainable urban living conditions.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • By highlighting air pollution and its effects, the article indirectly relates to climate action and reducing environmental hazards.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 3 Targets
   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.
2. SDG 11 Targets
   • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including air quality and municipal waste management.
3. SDG 13 Targets
   • Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Air Quality Index (AQI)
   • The article refers to the AQI levels (orange and red categories) as a measure of air pollution severity and health risk.
2. Health Symptoms and Medical Consultations
   • Symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and asthma attacks are mentioned as indicators of health impact from poor air quality.
3. Use of Air Quality Monitoring Tools
   • References to EPA’s Fire and Smoke Map and AirNow and SmokeSense apps imply monitoring and data collection as indicators of air quality management progress.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: lincoln.ne.gov