Air Quality Advisory Issued For Long Island As Temps Rise

LONG ISLAND, NY — An air quality advisory has been issued for Long Island today, as the increased temperatures will create more ozone at ground level.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued the warning for all of Long Island, as well as the New York City metro area, which includes Westchester and Rockland counties. The advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

High temperatures are expected to climb to about 90 degrees today, but the humidity can make it feel more like 96, the National Weather Service said.

The air for today is listed as "Unhealthy for sensitive groups," which is in the middle of the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality monitoring index. The people most likely to be affected are people with existing lung conditions, those who are active outdoors, and children and the elderly, according to the EPA.

Low amounts of ozone can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, throat irritation and coughing, according to the EPA. It's possible for healthy people to be sensitive to ozone and experience symptoms, as well. It can also cause those with existing lung conditions, like asthma, to experience symptoms.

To limit your ozone exposure, it's recommended to stay inside when possible.