The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has issued an air quality alert across much of the state, due to high ozone levels.
The alert will be in effect from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11.
The alert means that ground-level ozone concentrations in the area may approach or exceed levels that are unhealthy for sensitive groups – including people with asthma, lung or heart disease, and older adults.
People in these categories are being advised to reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor activity, take more breaks, do less intense activities, follow asthma action plans, and keep quick relief medicine handy. They should also watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.
Where is the air quality alert in effect?
The air quality alert is in effect for Essex, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Worcester Counties.
High heat in the forecast
After a week of mostly pleasant weather, temperatures are expected to rise into the 90s across much of the state for the first half of the week.
In Worcester, the National Weather Service is forecasting a high of 92 on Monday, 92 on Tuesday and 91 on Wednesday. There is a chance of showers and thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon and evening.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Air quality alert in effect for most of Massachusetts Monday, Aug. 11