Air quality alert extended in Rochester region
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has extended its air quality health alert for fine particulates through the end of Tuesday.
The alert comes as air quality levels in the Rochester region are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 151 for fine particulates. The alert covers Monroe, Wayne, Ontario, Livingston, Genesee, northern Cayuga, Orleans, Wyoming and Oswego counties.
"Canadian Wildfire smoke is once again streaming across the Lower Great Lakes" and is coming from western Canada, the National Weather Service in Buffalo shared in a tweet. "The heart of this smoke plume will drift directly over us through early tonight. Improvement is expected by mid-week."
According to Airnow.gov, the AQI for Rochester was considered unhealthy at 133 for fine particulates at 8 a.m.
The AQI is a standardized scale developed to simplify the understanding of different pollutants' impact on human health. A higher AQI value indicates a greater health concern. With the current pollution levels elevated, the New York State Department of Health advises individuals to consider reducing strenuous outdoor physical activities to minimize the risk of adverse health effects.
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Those who are particularly susceptible to the effects of increased pollutant levels are the very young and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or heart disease, according to the alert. It is recommended that individuals experiencing symptoms consult their personal physician for guidance.
For more information on the Air Quality Health Advisory, visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website or call the Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-535-1345.
What is AQI, or air quality index?
The air quality index, or AQI, measures the air quality and level of health concern it presents as measured by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Air quality alerts are indicators the air is unsafe to breathe for certain people. Alerts are triggered by a number of factors, including the detection of fine-particle pollution — known as “PM 2.5” — which can irritate the lungs.
Pollution is detected by a system of monitors on the ground “constantly taking measurements of the amount of chemicals and particles in the air,” said Susan Anenberg, professor and department chair of environmental and occupational health at George Washington University. Fine-particle pollution can affect every organ of the body, Anenberg said.
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PM2.5 is a mixture of chemicals that change based on what’s burning, Anenberg said. It’s possible some of the wildfire plume may contain toxic compounds from metals and chemicals.
“This can be quite health damaging and it’s important to recognize that this isn’t (all) natural biomass being burned but built environment, too,” she said.
It’s important take precautions against poor air quality. These are some safety recommendations from the California Air Resources Board, the state's agency charged with climate change programs and air pollution control.
Monitor daily air pollution forecasts in your area
Avoid exercising outdoors when pollution levels are high
Stay indoors with the windows and doors closed
Set air conditioning units to “re-circulate” to prevent bringing in air from outdoors
Keep hydrated by drinking water
Avoid adding to air pollution by wood burning, lawn mowing, leaf blowing, driving, barbecuing, smoking, using hairspray or painting indoors
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Air quality forecast in Rochester NY: Alert issued
