Orange & Putnam Counties, NY – Residents of Orange and Putnam counties are under an air quality alert until midnight Thursday, with health officials urging caution due to elevated fine particulate pollution.
Alert Issued Due to High Fine Particulate Levels
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in coordination with the National Weather Service, announced that Air Quality Index (AQI) levels are expected to exceed 100, signaling unhealthy conditions for sensitive individuals.
According to the advisory, “air quality levels in outdoor air are predicted to be greater than an AQI value of 100 for the pollutant of fine particulates.” That level represents a heightened risk to individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or heart disease, as well as young children and the elderly as per Silive.
The DEC and New York State Department of Health recommend that these groups limit strenuous outdoor physical activity and remain alert for symptoms such as shortness of breath or fatigue. Those experiencing any effects should consult their physician.
Understanding the AQI and Health Impacts
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a scale used to measure pollutants in the air and determine their impact on public health. When fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels increase, it can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, even in healthy individuals during prolonged exposure.
Weather Service Guidelines for Air Quality Alerts
To protect public health during periods of poor air quality, officials shared several key recommendations:
Stay Indoors When Possible
If you belong to a sensitive group or experience respiratory discomfort, limit your outdoor exposure and remain in well-ventilated indoor spaces.
Avoid Strenuous Outdoor Activity
During elevated pollution periods, reduce outdoor exertion, especially activities like running, biking, or lawn mowing.
Minimize Pollution-Causing Behaviors
Avoid driving or using gas-powered equipment as much as possible. These activities contribute to increased air pollution during alerts.
Refrain from Open Burning
Do not burn debris, wood, or trash. Open fires significantly contribute to fine particulate pollution and worsen air quality levels.
Stay Informed
Keep up with local weather updates and AQI monitoring through NOAA Weather Radio, local news outlets, or weather apps. This will help guide your daily plans and limit exposure.
What to Do During Poor Air Quality Events
Here’s how residents can better manage health risks during alerts like these:
- Use air purifiers indoors if available.
- Close windows and doors to keep indoor air clean.
- Set HVAC systems to recirculate air instead of pulling in outside air.
- Wear a mask (preferably N95) if you must go outside.
- Monitor symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness.
Looking Ahead
Although this alert is scheduled to end by Thursday at midnight, residents are urged to remain cautious if poor air quality conditions persist. Additional advisories may be issued depending on pollution trends and wind patterns.
Have you noticed haze or breathing issues in your area? Drop your experience in the comments.
