#MEwx Air Quality Alert to take effect early in the A.M.

Air Quality Alert Message

Relayed by National Weather Service Gray ME

3:23 PM EDT Mon Jul 17 2023

AIR QUALITY ALERT IN EFFECT FROM 2 AM TUESDAY TO MIDNIGHT EDT

TUESDAY NIGHT.

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Air Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for particle pollution from 2 AM Tuesday to midnight EDT Tuesday night.

Particle pollution levels are expected to rise into the Unhealthy For Sensitive Groups range on Tuesday.

Smoke from fires in western Canada has pushed into New York and the rest of New England today. This smoke moved into Maine this afternoon and will reach the highest levels on Tuesday.

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be

especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, the elderly, those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma, those with heart disease and

anyone who is working hard outdoors. It is okay to be active outdoors. But if you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation or an uncomfortable sensation in

your chest please consider limiting the intensity and duration of

your outdoor activities.

A toll free air quality hotline has been established so Maine

residents can stay informed on the air quality situations. The toll

free number is: 1-800-223-1196.

Additionally the Maine Department of Environmental Protection has

the air quality forecast available on the web at

www.maine.gov/dep/air/aqforecast.