Ground-level ozone to create unhealthy air quality Thursday, RI agencies warn

PROVIDENCE – The state Department of Environmental Management is predicting unhealthy air-qualityconditions Thursday afternoon and evening in Providence, Kent, and Bristol counties due to elevated ground level ozone concentrations.

The highest readings will be in the Providence metropolitan area, the DEM said in a news release. Fine-particle readings are expected to reach moderate levels in northern Rhode Island.

Ozone is a major component of smog and is formed by the photochemical reaction of pollutants emitted by motor vehicles, industry and other sources in the presence of elevated temperatures and sunlight.

How does ozone cause problems?

The state Department of Health warns that unhealthy levels of ozone can cause throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and aggravation of asthma and other respiratory ailments. These symptoms are worsened by exercise and heavy activity.

Children, the elderly and people who have underlying lung diseases, such as asthma, are at particular risk of suffering from these effects. As ozone levels increase, the number of people affected and the severity of the health effects also increase, the department says.

How can people steer clear of ozone health problems?

The Health Department recommends limiting outdoor exercise and strenuous activity and staying in an air-conditioned environment if possible during the afternoon and evening hours, when ozone levels are highest. Schedule outdoor exercise and children’s outdoor activities during the morning hours, as ozone does not typically form until after midday. Individuals who experience respiratory symptoms may wish to consult their doctors.

Rhode Island residents can help reduce air pollutant emissions by limiting car travel and the use of small engines such as those on lawn mowers, and charcoal lighter fuels, and by traveling by bus or carpool whenever possible, particularly during high ozone periods. Air quality can change throughout the day. Use AirNow.gov or download the AirNow application for smartphones to check the current air quality.