An air quality health advisory will be in effect again Thursday for the Long Island and NYC Metro regions, where air will be unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The extreme heat warning remains in effect through 9 p.m. Friday, for “dangerously hot conditions” with heat index values up to 112º, the National Weather Service said.
An extreme heat watch is in effect for Saturday, when heat index values could reach 103º.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside, the weather service said. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible, and drink plenty of water.
Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at an increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures.
The Town of Riverhead will open the senior center at 60 Shade Tree Lane as a cooling center both Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Know the symptoms of heat illness. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is a health emergency. Visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat-illness for more information.
Air quality health advisory due to ground-level ozone
For the air quality advisory, the pollutant of concern is ground-level ozone. Automobile exhaust and out-of-state emission sources are the primary sources of ground-level ozone and the most serious air pollution problems in the northeast, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Ozone is not a direct emission, and is produced indirectly when sunlight chemically reacts with nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from automobile exhaust and industrial emissions. High ozone is not as visible as PM2.5 because it is a colorless gas, but will produce hazy skies and reduce visibility in high concentrations.
The air quality index Thursday is expected to reach 101 in the Long Island Region.
People, especially those with cardiovascular disease and those who have respiratory disease (such as asthma), young children, the elderly, those who exercise outdoors, and those involved in vigorous outdoor work should consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity when ozone levels are the highest (generally afternoon to early evening).
When outdoor levels of ozone are elevated, going indoors will usually reduce exposure. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing should consider consulting their personal physician.
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