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Data from First Samples from PM2.5 Monitors

Release Date: 5/19/1998
Contact Information: For more information contact the Office of External Affairs at (214) 665-2200.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has obtained the first set of results from fine particulate (PM-2.5) samples collected May 16-17 in four Texas cities. Results for a second Dallas air sample collected May 17-18 also were obtained. Sampling was in response to the heavy smoke and haze experienced in Texas due to extensive fires in Mexico and Central America.

The PM-2.5 concentrations below, which are given in micrograms of PM-2.5 per cubic meter of air (ug/m3), are for a 24-hour period.

                                         Day 1 (May 16-17)        Day 2 (May 17-18)

Dallas                                   55.7 ug/m3               30.8 ug/m3

San Antonio (2 sites) site 1             49.6 ug/3                DATA NOT YET RECEIVED

                      site 2             43.7 ug/m3               DATA NOT YET RECEIVED
                 
Brownsville                              41.3 ug/m3               DATA NOT YET RECEIVED

Galveston                                34.5 ug/m3               DATA NOT YET RECEIVED

The National Ambient Air Quality Standard for PM-2.5 is 65 ug/m3 for a 24-hour period and 15 ug/m3 for an average of all samples collected during a year.

The above data reflect PM-2.5 levels less than the 24-hour Clean Air standard. These levels should not create a high health risk for most of the general population over a short period of time. Concentrations at or above these levels over many days may exceed the safe limit set for an average exposure during a year. Some people, including children, those with respiratory ailments and the elderly, are more sensitive to exposure. Sensitive people should exercise caution as outlined in the State's health advisory.

Additional data will be released by EPA as it is received.