Ozone concentrations at ground level are predicted to increase in Maine Wednesday and are expected to reach unhealthy levels along the coast, according to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
Ozone levels began building Tuesday afternoon in the New York City/Long Island Sound area, DEP officials said in a release. Winds are expected to bring these high levels of ozone to Maine and travel down the coast Wednesday.
Temperatures were near or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit in much of Maine on Monday and Tuesday, and they are expected to continue reaching into the 90s on Wednesday, according to forecasters.
Particle pollution levels Wednesday are expected to be moderate statewide, and heat advisories have been issued by the National Weather Service. This combination of heat, humidity and poor air quality will exacerbate the effects of each factor.
“At elevated ozone levels, children, healthy adults who exert themselves and individuals suffering from a respiratory disease such as asthma, bronchitis or COPD can experience reduced lung function and irritation,” DEP officials said. “When this happens, individuals may notice a shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation and/or experience an uncomfortable sensation in their chest.”
People who may be affected are advised to adjust their schedule to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon. Sports coaches, eldercare workers, nurses and others who are responsible for the welfare of people affected by poor air quality are urged to consult DEP’s air quality forecast online at www.maine.gov/dep/air/ozone or by using Environmental Protection Agency’s air quality app, m.epa.gov/apps/airnow.html .
More information about the risks of poor air quality can be found online at www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc or www.epa.gov/asthma. DEP’s toll free air quality hotline is 1-800-223-1196.
Follow the Bangor Daily News on Facebook for the latest Maine news.
