Air Quality Alert: Unhealthy Ozone for Sensitive Groups Expected Friday in Southern RI
Published on Thursday, July 02, 2026
PROVIDENCE,
RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM)
forecasts that air quality will reach UNHEALTHY levels for sensitive
groups due to elevated ground-level ozone on Friday, July 3. The alert
is being issued for southern parts of the state in Washington, Newport,
and Kent Counties only.
Key Details:
UNHEALHTY ozone levels for sensitive groups are expected in the southern parts of the state.
Peak levels begin early afternoon, continuing 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.
McKee Administration Reminds Rhode Islanders About Safety Precautions During Extreme Heat
PROVIDENCE, RI – The
McKee Administration is reminding all Rhode Islanders about safety tips
to prevent illness and injury during the ongoing heat wave.
“Extreme heat can be a serious issue,” said Governor Dan McKee. “With
the temperatures we are seeing and expecting over the coming days,
people should be checking on each other, staying hydrated, limiting
their exposure to the heat, and watching for signs of heat-related
illness. A few small steps can help people stay healthy and safe.”
The
National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for most of
Southern New England for today through Friday. The National Weather
Service is forecasting temperatures between 95ºF-100ºF (35ºC-38ºC).
The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) maintains a list of cooling centers operated by
cities and towns across Rhode Island for those seeking relief during
periods of extreme heat. To find a cooling center, call 2-1-1 or visit
the RIEMA cooling center webpage: riema.ri.gov/resources/cooling-centers. Individuals experiencing homelessness who need assistance finding a cooling center should visittheir regional access point for support.
Normally,
when you get hot, your body cools itself by sweating. However, when it
is very hot and humid, sweating isn’t enough, and your body temperature
can rise very quickly. High temperatures can cause heat stroke, heat
exhaustion, or heat cramps. Certain populations are at increased risk
for heat-related illness during periods of extreme heat. These
populations include babies and young children, people who are pregnant,
children and teens with asthma, older adults, people who work or
exercise outdoors, people who use substances, people who take
medications that impact the body’s ability to regulate temperature, and
people with chronic medical conditions (such as heart disease, diabetes,
and obesity).
Use air conditioning or fans, windows, and shades or curtains to keep your house cool.
Take cool showers or baths. Avoid cooking hot food indoors when the day is at its hottest.
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Never leave children, pets, or older adults in unattended cars during periods of extreme heat.
When you are outside during extreme heat:
Stay out of the direct sun. Try to stay in shaded areas.
Wear a hat with a brim and wear sunscreen for protection.
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Schedule outdoor events early in the morning, when it is cooler and the air quality is better.
Wear light-colored and lightweight clothing.
Watch for warning signs:
Check
on friends, family, and neighbors during periods of extreme heat. Signs
of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating; cold, pale, and clammy skin;
nausea or vomiting; tiredness; dizziness; or headache. If someone is
showing signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place; put a cool,
wet cloth on their body; and have them sip water. Call medical help if
symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment