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Air Quality Alert Issued For RI Tuesday, Aug. 12

DEM's air quality alert warns people air will be unhealthy for sensitive groups Tuesday.
DEM's air quality alert warns people air will be unhealthy for sensitive groups Tuesday.
DEM’s air quality alert warns people air will be unhealthy for sensitive groups Tuesday.

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has issued an Air Quality Alert warning air quality will be unhealthy for sensitive groups due to elevated ground-level ozone on Tuesday, Aug. 12. The alert is being issued statewide.

Air Quality Alert Key Details:

  • Unhealthy ozone levels are expected across the entire state.
  • Peak levels begin early afternoon, continuing well into the evening.
  • Fine particles are also expected to be elevated, reaching MODERATE.

Health Impacts:

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.

Recommended Actions:

  • 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.

Air quality can change throughout the day. To stay informed, download the AirNOW app or visit www.airnow.gov for real-time updates and forecasts.

Additional information is also available on DEM’s air quality forecast page at www.dem.ri.gov/airquality.

For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter/X (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates. Sign up here to receive the latest press releases, news, and events from DEM’s Public Affairs Office to your inbox.

Rob Borkowski
Author: Rob Borkowski

Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at editor@warwickpost.com with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.

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