PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has issued an Air Quality Alert for Thursday due to elevated concentrations of ground-level ozone.

The DEM predicts that ozone, a major component of smog, will reach unhealthy levels in Providence, Kent and Bristol counties. The agency expects the highest ozone readings will be found in the Providence metropolitan area.

Ozone is created when pollutants in the air react to the presence of elevated temperatures and sunlight.

The DEM is urging Rhode Islanders to help reduce air pollutant emissions by limiting car travel and use of small engines, lawn motors, and charcoal lighter fuels.

Unhealthy ozone levels pose a health risk to children, older adults, and people with pre-existing lung conditions. Residents are advised to limit their outdoor activity while the Air Quality Alert is in effect.

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