#Middlebury #ElevatedOzone #HeatWave
(HARTFORD) – Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is expecting high temperatures to reach the mid to upper 90s on Wednesday, which will contribute to elevated ozone levels across coastal Connecticut. These levels may approach or exceed Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) levels for parts of Connecticut on July 20, 2022 and could continue into the rest of the week.
“Heading into the second day of our first summer heat wave, the stage will be set on Wednesday for ozone production along coastal Connecticut, extending from Bridgeport to Groton,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “Governor Lamont has activated Connecticut’s extreme hot weather protocol and DEEP advises everyone to take proper precautions to avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially during high ozone events. The heat wave and high ozone levels may continue through the end of the week.”
More information on the heat wave can be found at https://portal.ct.gov/DEMHS/Emergency-Management/Resources-For-Individuals/Summer-Weather-Awareness/Extreme-Heat-and-Cooling-Centers.
Health Effects of Air Pollution
When air quality is forecasted to be USG, there is an increased likelihood individuals in sensitive groups will develop respiratory symptoms and may experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Children and people with asthma or other lung disease are most at risk for experiencing these symptoms. Active children and adults, and people with impaired lung function or cardiovascular disease should limit prolonged outdoor exertion. Peak ozone levels generally occur between 2-8 pm EDT, so make sure you get your activity or exercise in before or after these times to minimize adverse health effects.
Weather Summary
Wednesday will feature hot summer-like conditions for Connecticut. Weather models predict that high pressure, currently over the southern states, will start to build into the mid-Atlantic States. Sunny skies will help temperatures rise well into the 90s on Wednesday and continue for several days. As southwest flow develops, this will transport ozone precursors along the I-95 corridor and into Long Island Sound and southwest Connecticut. Ozone will rapidly form during the late morning hours and be transported into southwest coastal Connecticut. Temperatures in the 90s will persist through the week, likely accompanied by elevated ozone reaching USG levels along the coast, until temperatures subside after the weekend.
