Yisroel R.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the State Department of Health have extended an Air Quality Health Advisory for ozone through today, May 18, for Rockland County.

The advisory lists the air quality as unhealthy for sensitive groups, meaning people with heart or breathing conditions, young children, older adults, and those who are active outdoors may be more affected.

DEC also issued an ozone advisory today for the Lower Hudson Valley region, covering nearby counties including Orange, Putnam, Dutchess, Ulster, and Sullivan.

Residents in affected areas are advised to use caution while spending time outdoors, especially during the warmer parts of the day when ozone levels can be higher.

For more information, residents can contact the Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-535-1345 or check the latest AQI forecast through the DEC.