Buffalo, N.Y. – Residents from Buffalo to Monticello should limit outdoor activity today as elevated ozone levels trigger an air quality alert across much of New York until 11 p.m. Wednesday.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to exceed 100 for ground-level ozone in areas including Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Sullivan, and Chautauqua counties. This level can pose health risks, particularly to children, older adults, and people with asthma or heart conditions.
Cities under the alert include Buffalo, Batavia, Medina, Jamestown, Olean, Orchard Park, and Monticello. When ozone concentrations climb, even healthy individuals may experience respiratory discomfort after prolonged outdoor exertion. Health officials advise avoiding strenuous outdoor activity, especially during the afternoon when ozone levels tend to peak.
Residents should consider staying indoors with windows closed, using air purifiers if available, and checking on vulnerable neighbors. Symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest tightness should prompt a call to a medical provider.
This is the first major ozone alert of June in the region, coinciding with rising early-summer temperatures. Additional advisories are possible later this week if heat and stagnant air persist.
