Air Quality Alert Effective Through Thursday Night

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for the five boroughs, effective Thursday from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The air quality is currently rated at Code Orange. According the Air Quality Index, Code Orange indicates that the air you're breathing today is "unhealthy for sensitive groups," namely, those with lung disease, children and the elderly.

Air pollution effects can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors.