Millions of Americans Warned to Avoid Drive-Thru Lanes as Air Pollution Hits Dangerous Levels

On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued multiple air quality alerts across the United States. States including Texas, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, and Montana are facing high levels of air pollution, with experts urging millions of Americans to avoid drive-thru lanes and limit outdoor activities.

The warnings mean that ground-level ozone and particulate concentrations have reached harmful levels. In many areas, wildfire smoke has worsened the situation, making the air unsafe for the public.

Why the Alerts Were Issued

The NWS explained that dangerous pollution levels can affect everyone, but the risk is higher for children, senior citizens, and people with lung or heart problems. Breathing polluted air may cause coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and other health issues.

The agency advised people to reduce physical activity outdoors and take steps to protect themselves. “Ozone is an air contaminant which can cause breathing difficulties,” the NWS said, recommending less time outside during peak pollution hours.

State-by-State Situation

Texas:
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality declared an Ozone Action Day for Houston, Galveston, and Brazoria. Residents were urged to carpool, walk, ride bikes, or work from home. Authorities also recommended avoiding drive-thru lanes, conserving energy, and keeping cars properly tuned.

Arizona:
The Phoenix Metro Area is under a high pollution advisory. Residents were told to reduce the use of gasoline-powered equipment and, if possible, shift activities to later in the day when air pollution is lower.

Oregon:
An air quality advisory remains in effect for parts of Lane County until Thursday evening due to wildfire smoke. The Lane Regional Air Protection Agency warned that smoke will push pollution levels into the unhealthy range.

Washington:
Counties including Yakima, Spokane, and Grant are under alerts because of wildfire smoke. Officials warned that particulate matter in the air may make it unsafe to spend long periods outdoors.

Montana:
In Daniels, Richland, Roosevelt, and nearby counties, alerts will remain in effect until Thursday morning. Authorities said smoke from wildfires continues to spread across large parts of the state.

Health Concerns and Expert Views

Doctors warn that smoke and ozone exposure can trigger burning eyes, runny noses, asthma attacks, and heart complications. Children are especially vulnerable because their lungs are still developing.

Jonathan Grigg, a professor of pediatric respiratory medicine in the U.K., previously explained that polluted air is linked to early deaths caused by lung and heart diseases. He said children face extra risks because their bodies are still growing.

What People Should Do

• Stay indoors when possible.

• Avoid strenuous activities outside.

• Use clean indoor air filters.

• Check on elderly neighbors and relatives.

• Drink water and avoid excessive heat exposure.

Authorities continue to update the public through the NWS and the EPA’s AirNow website. Most alerts are expected to stay in effect until at least Thursday, September 4, 2025.