Unhealthy Air Quality Thursday and Friday from High Level of Ozone

Unhealthy air quality is forecast for Thursday and Friday from elevated concentrations of ground-level ozone pollution according to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

A forecast of “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” (Code Orange) has been issued for Thursday, while Friday could bring a Code Red or “Unhealthy” level of air quality when the core of hottest air mass moves into the region. 

Click here to see air quality levels in Connecticut. 

A combination of heat and southwest winds will produce ideal conditions for ozone formation and transport of elevated levels of ozone and other air pollution into Connecticut. 

Anyone can be affected by ground-level ozone, but groups particularly sensitive include children and adults who are active outdoors, and people with respiratory disease, such as asthma. 

Sensitive people who experience effects at lower ozone concentrations are likely to experience more serious effects at higher concentrations.  

Here's how residents can keep from adding more pollution to the ground-level air:

•  Avoid mowing lawns with gasoline powered mowers
• Carpool and/or take public transportation, when possible
• Avoid refueling vehicles until after dusk
• Conserve electricity and set air conditioners to 78°F