Trenton, N.J. – Sensitive groups across southern and coastal New Jersey should limit outdoor activity Sunday as ozone levels rise to unhealthy levels in a broad Code Orange air quality alert.
According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the alert covers Cape May, Atlantic, Ocean, Monmouth, and southeastern Burlington counties from early Sunday through late evening. Elevated ozone concentrations are expected to make air pollution dangerous for children, seniors, and people with asthma, heart, or lung conditions.
Residents in Ocean City, Atlantic City, Toms River, and Long Branch are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor exercise and stay indoors during peak afternoon hours when air quality tends to worsen. Officials recommend using air conditioning or air purifiers indoors, and postponing yard work or outdoor chores if possible.
Sunday’s air alert is driven by high temperatures, stagnant air, and increased vehicle emissions—common contributors to ozone pollution in early summer. Similar alerts have been issued this time of year in previous summers, especially during dry, sunny stretches.
More alerts could follow early next week if heat and calm conditions persist. Updates will be issued by NJDEP and local health departments as conditions evolve.
