Air Quality Alert In Effect For Westchester: Here’s When It Ends

You’re not dreaming if the air feels a bit thicker today.

A map of the lower Hudson Valley, Long Island, and New York City air quality on Wednesday afternoon, June 25. Poor and unhealthy air quality conditions are indicated by yellow and red, respectively.

Through 11 p.m. today, Wednesday, June 25, a health alert for increased air pollution levels is still in force for a large portion of the Hudson Valley, New York City, Long Island, and the lower Hudson region.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued the advisory, which covers all five boroughs, Nassau and Suffolk counties, and Westchester and Rockland. Elevated ground-level ozone levels are the cause for concern since they can make the air dangerous to breathe, particularly for those who have heart disease, asthma, or other respiratory disorders.

It is anticipated that the Air Quality Index will be higher than 100, indicating that the air quality is harmful for vulnerable populations. Until the air quality improves, officials are encouraging locals to restrict vigorous outdoor activities, particularly for youngsters, the elderly, and people with underlying medical concerns.

When symptoms like coughing, sore throats, or trouble breathing occur, it’s best to take it easy and, if things become worse, see a doctor.

Summer is a particularly high-risk season for smog because hot, bright days with little breeze tend to accumulate ground-level ozone. During peak hours, the New York State Department of Health recommends keeping windows closed and staying indoors with air conditioning if at all possible.