Visitors to the website will see today's ozone forecast and yesterday's actual levels, plus text and maps showing areas of the state where any advisories are in effect and explanations of ozone and advisory terminology. We are now able to use several media to inform the public quickly when ozone levels are elevated and what residents can do to protect their health. Therefore, limiting strenuous outdoor activities during an ozone advisory is recommended for those at higher risk for symptoms. People exposed to elevated levels of ozone may experience a variety of symptoms. The most common is a feeling of irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat.
Some people also experience shortness of breath, chest pain, and wheezing.
Very young people and people with pre-existing lung disease, such as asthma, may be more seriously affected by elevated ozone levels. For the young, those involved in vigorous outdoor work or exercise, or those with pre-existing chronic respiratory disease, special care should be taken to limit outdoor activity during peak ozone hours. Ground-level ozone is formed by photochemical reactions when emissions of nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons from automobile exhaust, gasoline vapors and industrial solvents mix under sunny, hot conditions. DEC and DOH issue Ozone Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists forecast unhealthy ozone levels. If an advisory is needed, DEC will notify the news media, and place a message on the DEC Ozone Hotline and update the ozone levels report and advisory on the DEC website.