Long Island Air Quality Advisory Extended To Friday

LONG ISLAND, NY — An air quality advisory issued for Long Island for today has been extended to tomorrow, as well. The high heat will continue to create elevated levels of ozone at ground level, which can be unhealthy for some people.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued the warning for all of Long Island, as well as the New York City metro area, which includes Westchester and Rockland counties. The advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The air is listed as "Unhealthy for sensitive groups," which is in the middle of the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality monitoring index. The people most likely to be affected are people with existing lung conditions, those who are active outdoors, children and the elderly, according to the EPA.

Low amounts of ozone at ground level can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, throat irritation and coughing, according to the EPA. It's possible for healthy people to be sensitive to ozone and experience symptoms, as well. It can also cause those with existing lung conditions, like asthma, to experience symptoms.

To limit your ozone exposure, it's recommended to stay inside when possible.