Hartford, Conn. – Air quality across southern Connecticut will reach unhealthy levels between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. Tuesday, raising health concerns for residents in Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex, and New London counties.
According to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, a Ground Level Ozone Action Day has been declared for much of the state as ozone concentrations are expected to exceed safe limits. Sensitive groups—including children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory conditions—are urged to limit prolonged outdoor activity during the advisory window.
Residents in Bridgeport, New Haven, Middletown, and Norwich should be especially cautious as ozone levels climb through the afternoon and evening hours. Commuters along I-95 and Route 9 could experience hazier conditions, while outdoor workers are advised to take frequent breaks indoors. Public health officials recommend staying inside with windows closed and using air conditioning if possible. Carpooling, limiting vehicle use, and avoiding gas-powered yard work can also help reduce ozone formation.
This marks the first widespread ozone alert of the summer for Connecticut, echoing similar conditions seen in July 2021. The advisory remains in effect until 11 p.m. Tuesday, but further alerts are possible if air quality does not improve.
