Air Quality Alert For Coastal Maine Today
The EPA has issued an air quality alert for all of coastal Maine today as temperatures climb into the 80's and near 90.
The air quality alert is in response to ozone levels that are expected to reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. People with heart or lung disease, the elderly, teenagers,and children will be most affected today.
What does this mean for you? Well, if you don't fall into any of these groups, you'll probably be fine, although you may find that you get winded quicker. Outdoor activity is okay, but you'll want to take more breaks, and do less intense activities. So, in other words, a short walk might be okay, but today may not be the best day for an extended jog. Everyone should watch for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath, especially the people in that 'most affected' group.
Asthmatics should keep their quick relief medications handy. And folks with heart disease will want to watch for heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, and contact their health provider if necessary.
Get more information about today's alert at the EPA's website.