State Issues Air Quality Alert Thursday: DEM

NARRAGANSETT — The state has issued an Air Quality Alert Day for the entire state on Thursday. According to the forecast, mostly sunny skies, favorable west by southwest flows, and the lack of any widespread afternoon showers should allow ozone to reach unhealthy levels during the afternoon and late into the evening, according to Darren J Austin – Senior Air Quality Specialist at the state Department of Environmental Management.

"It's recommended to avoid heavy exertion during those times," he said. "Fine particles are expected to reach moderate levels. A cold front approaches overnight, with an increased chance of showers and thunder. The front should get offshore by Friday, with less humidity, mostly sunny skies, and good air quality which should last into Saturday."

Get free real-time news alerts from theNarragansett-South Kingstown Patch.

By clicking "Subscribe", you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

The Department of Health warns that unhealthy levels of ozone can cause throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and aggravation of asthma and other respiratory ailments. These symptoms are worsened by exercise and heavy activity. The children, elderly and people who have underlying lung diseases, such as asthma, are at particular risk of suffering from these effects. As ozone levels increase, the number of people affected and the severity of the health effects also increase.

Image via Shutterstock