New York, N.Y. – Unhealthy air is blanketing the New York City metro area through midnight Sunday as fine particulate pollution pushes AQI levels above 100 across 14 counties.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, an Air Quality Health Advisory is in effect for all five boroughs, along with Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Orange, and Putnam counties. The alert warns of elevated concentrations of fine particulates, which can pose health risks, especially for people with asthma, heart conditions, or other respiratory issues.
Residents in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activity, especially during the afternoon and early evening when pollution levels typically peak. Long Island towns from Huntington to Montauk may also see reduced visibility and hazy skies due to the lingering particulate matter.
Health officials recommend staying indoors when possible, using air purifiers if available, and checking in on older adults or children with respiratory sensitivities. Those experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath or coughing should contact a healthcare provider.
The advisory is set to expire at midnight, but further alerts may be issued if pollution levels remain elevated. To monitor updates, residents can call the state’s air quality hotline at 1-800-535-1345.
