An air quality alert has been issued for parts of the New York City metro area through Monday evening because of elevated ground-level ozone, according to the National Weather Service in Upton.
The alert, issued at 9:54 a.m. Monday, is in effect until 11 p.m. for Rockland, Westchester, Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, Brooklyn and Queens.
What are forecasters saying?
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued the advisory after forecasting Air Quality Index (AQI) values above 100 because of ground-level ozone.
An AQI above 100 is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, including children, older adults and people with asthma, heart disease or other respiratory conditions.
State health officials recommend limiting strenuous outdoor activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. Anyone experiencing symptoms should consider contacting a health care provider.
What is an air quality alert?
An air quality alert is issued when pollution levels are expected to reach concentrations that may pose a health risk.
While this advisory is for ground-level ozone, poor air quality also can result from wildfire smoke. According to the National Weather Service, smoke particles can cause eye, nose and throat irritation and may worsen heart and lung conditions. Children, older adults, pregnant people and those with heart or respiratory illnesses are especially vulnerable.
How can you protect yourself?
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends limiting time outdoors when the AQI exceeds 100, especially if you are part of a sensitive group.
Additional steps to reduce exposure include:
What the Air Quality Index means
New York weather watches and warnings
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This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Air quality alert issued for NYC area Monday: See affected counties
Reporting by New York Connect Team, USA Today Network / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By New York Connect Team, USA Today Network | USA TODAY Network
