State Declares Air Quality, Heat Alert For Parts Of New Hampshire

CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is warning of "air pollution concentrations" in two counties that could reach "unhealthy levels for sensitive individuals."

The alert was issued Monday for Hillsborough and Rockingham counties, with state officials calling for "an Air Quality Action Day" warning residents "to protect their health by limiting prolonged outdoor exertion." Children and adults, who may have sensitivity issues, may have lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis, or residents who are active outdoors, should take precautions.

"Even healthy individuals may experience mild health effects and should consider limiting strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities," James Martin of the department said.

Ground-level ozone, the main component of smog, is expected to rise to levels that are unhealthy. Moderate levels of fine particle pollution were also expected statewide this week.

"The predicted air pollution comes from winds transporting pollutant emissions into New Hampshire from surrounding areas, which combine with local emissions," Martin said. "High temperatures and sunny skies then enhance the creation of ozone. Air quality is expected to improve on Tuesday as cloudier skies move into the area and help inhibit the formation of ozone."

Symptoms could include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or pain when inhaling deeply, and shortness of breath, according to officials. The severity of the health effects increases as ozone concentrations increase, Martin said.

The state emergency management team also issued a warning Monday saying residents may be unable to cool off tonight.

"Know what to do and have the items you need to stay safe," Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Jennifer Harper said. "Stay hydrated, and take necessary steps to protect yourself and your family, including your pets, from heat-related illness. Take extra precautions, such as frequent breaks, if you work or spend time outside."

Harper warned children and pets should never be left inside of closed vehicles; drink plenty of water; check on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbors as well as animals; signup for alerts; and watch weather forecasts. If you are outside, avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day; wear light and light-colored clothes; wear sunblock and a hat; and limit exposure to the sun.

For air quality forecasts and current air pollution levels in New Hampshire, call 1-800-935-SMOG or visit the NH DES Air Quality website, linked here.

Safety information can also be found at ReadyNH.gov in the extreme heat section, linked here.

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