Air Quality Poor On Friday: Alert In Effect For 12 Hours

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Ozone pollution will be bad enough in the New York metro area today, including Rockland and Westchester counties, that an air quality alert has been issued for 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Air quality levels in outdoor air are predicted to be greater than an Air Quality Index value of 100 for the pollutant of Ground Level Ozone. The higher the AQI value, the greater the health concern.

In Westchester and Rockland, the air quality on Friday is ranked "poor." In the rest of the Hudson Valley, the air quality is ranked "moderate."

When pollution levels are elevated, the New York State Department of Health recommends you 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 preexisting respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease.

Those with symptoms should consider consulting their personal physician.

A toll free air quality hotline has been established so New York residents can stay informed on the air quality situation. The toll free number is 1 800-535-1345.

Temperatures will be around 90 degrees F on Friday. SEE: Cool Weekend To Follow Hot End Of Work Week In The Hudson Valley

There is a chance of showers and thunderstorms Friday afternoon, the National Weather Service said. A hazardous outlook has been issued for Dutchess and Ulster counties, where scattered thunderstorms could include small hail and gusty winds.