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Air Quality Alert: Hudson Valley

Pollution levels will be unhealthy until almost midnight in Rockland and Westchester and moderate for the rest of the region.

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — New York State has issued an Air Quality Alert for Thursday. The alert is in place from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The pollutant of concern: ozone.

The air will be unhealthy for sensitive people in Rockland and Westchester and moderately polluted in Putnam, Dutchess, Orange and Ulster counties.

When pollution levels are elevated, the New York State Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects.
People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Those with symptoms should consider consulting their personal physician.
For additional information, please visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website, or call the Air Quality Hotline at 800-535-1345.

While high ozone levels are normally restricted to the warm season, fine particles can be high at any time of year. These pollutants arise from sources such as cars, trucks and power plants, with fine particle levels also enhanced by forest fires and residential burning. To help reduce pollution levels, refrain from unnecessary driving and use public transportation if available.

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Air Quality Alert map/ NYDEC

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