Community Corner
Ozone Alert Hits Greater New York City Area, Westchester 'Moderate'
"Levels of ozone are expected to be Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups," said state officials, referring to the New York City Metro Area.
Written by Lanning Taliaferro
The Air Quality Index forecast for today is "moderate" for the Lower Hudson Valley, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
That's better off than New York City—or Connecticut towns along the north shore of western Long Island Sound. Those folks have an "unhealthy" rating today for the air they breathe.
"An Air Quality Health Advisory for ground-level ozone has been issued for the New York City Metro Area for Today, July 22, 2014," officials said in a statement. "It is in effect from noon to 10PM. Levels of ozone are expected to be Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups."
Rockland County Health officials have sent out statement, explaining that the pollutant triggering the alert today is ozone. They recommend residents limit strenuous outdoor activities during the afternoon and evening.
“Ozone levels are usually highest after noon and through early evening hours on hot, sunny days, and therefore this part of the day is the peak time for symptoms. Performing vigorous exercise outdoors such as running also makes a person more likely to experience symptoms from exposure to ozone,” said Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert.
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