State Issues Air Quality Alert for Bergen County

The N.J. Department of Environmental Protection has issued an Air Quality Alert for Bergen County Tuesday, warning residents the state's Air Quality Index is at the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” status.

Hot temperatures across the state, combined with sunny skies and southwest winds, the DEP says, will put older adults, children and those with heart and lung conditions at greater risk from exposure to ozone.

The DEP recommends limiting outdoor activity for those groups. The alert is in effect until 10 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

Thunderstorms in the forecast for later in the day Tuesday are expected to alleviate the poor air quality conditions. The National Weather Service is calling for thunderstorms after 3 p.m. in the Westwood and Washington Township area and more rainfall tonight with storms likely.

While you are keeping cool inside, read important , and make the best of it with these  recipes. If you're willing to brave the heat, swing by , , or for a cold treat.