The main sources of sulfur dioxide emissions are from fossil fuel combustion and natural volcanic activity. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park (NP) is unique in the national park system because it sometimes has extremely high concentrations of sulfur dioxide — far higher than any other national park, or even most urban areas. Sulfur dioxide irritates the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. High concentrations of SO2 can cause inflammation and irritation of the respiratory system, especially during heavy physical activity. The resulting symptoms can include pain when taking a deep breath, coughing, throat irritation, and breathing difficulties. High concentrations of SO2 can affect lung function, worsen asthma attacks, and worsen existing heart disease in sensitive groups. This gas can also react with other chemicals in the air and change to a small particle that can get into the lungs and cause similar health effects. People sensitive to sulfur dioxide include:
When possibly unhealthy sulfur dioxide pollution happens, your chances of being affected increase with high levels of activity and the length of time you are active outdoors. If your planned activity has long or heavy physical exertion and the sulfur dioxide levels are high, you may want to limit or stop your activity. For recommended ways to protect yourself at high levels of sulfur dioxide, consult the Health Advisory Table. What are the NPS sulfur dioxide health advisories?A SO2 air pollution advisory program was created at Hawai'i Volcanoes NP to deliver timely information about possible unhealthy air pollution conditions that could affect the health of visitors, island residents, and park personnel. Using the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) air quality index, the NPS SO2 health advisories for Hawai'i Volcanoes NP help you understand what local air quality means to your health. The air quality index is divided into six levels of health concern:
Understanding Sulfur Dioxide Health Advisory Levels
The SO2 and weather data used in this program are collected by the National Park Service at the Jaggar Museum and Kilauea Visitor Center monitoring sites. The SO2 concentrations measured at the monitoring sites are reviewed every 15 minutes and one of six advisory levels of health concern are assigned for that 15-minute period for each site. How does sulfur dioxide affect national parks?Hawai'i Volcanoes NP is significantly impacted by sulfur dioxide because the high levels create a human health concern. Sulfate particles can also create haze and reduce visibility at Hawai'i Volcanoes NP and other national parks. Sulfur dioxide can convert to acids in the atmosphere and come down from the atmosphere in rain, snow, or fog, or as dry particles. This atmospheric deposition can damage vegetation, affect soils, acidify lakes and streams, and ruin memorials, buildings, and statues at our national cultural monuments. |
Last updated: July 24, 2024