Air Quality Alert Forecast For Rockland, Westchester

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — An health advisory has already been called for all day Thursday as the air quality index goes to orange in Rockland, Westchester and New York City.

The air quality alert for high levels of ozone will be in effect from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. — longer than the heat advisory, which is scheduled to end at 8 p.m.

The air quality index has six stages ranging from good to hazardous.

"Unhealthy for sensitive groups" is in the middle of the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality monitoring index. The people most likely to be affected are people with existing lung conditions, those who are active outdoors, and children and the elderly, according to the EPA.

Thursday's air quality will be unhealthy for sensitive groups, New York state health and environmental officials warned.

Low amounts of ozone at ground level can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, throat irritation and coughing, according to the EPA. It's possible for healthy people to be sensitive to ozone and experience symptoms, as well. It can also cause those with existing lung conditions, like asthma, to experience symptoms.

To limit your ozone exposure, it's recommended to stay inside when possible.