RIDEM issues air quality alert for parts of Rhode Island

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management issued an air quality alert for parts of the state Saturday due to elevated ground-level ozone.

RIDEM said the alert affects Washington and Newport Counties, with the highest levels of unhealthy air quality on the immediate coastline.

The worst effects are expected in the late afternoon evening.

Unhealthy ozone levels may cause:

• Throat irritation, coughing, and chest pain
• Shortness of breath and increased risk of respiratory infections
• Worsening of asthma and other lung conditions, particularly for children, the elderly, and others with pre-existing respiratory issues.

RIDEM said that the following precautions can be taken in areas with unhealthy air quality:

• Reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.
• Take frequent breaks and choose less strenuous activities.
• Monitor for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.
• People with asthma or lung conditions should follow their action plans and carry quick-relief medications.
• Schedule outdoor activities in the morning when ozone levels are lowest and typically GOOD on the Air Quality index.

Updates on air quality can be found here.

RIDEM’s air quality forecast can be found here.