By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (June 29, 2026) — New York State has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for New York City on Tuesday, June 30, as forecasters warn of deteriorating air quality ahead of a prolonged stretch of dangerous heat expected to impact the region through the Independence Day weekend.

The advisory will be in effect from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Tuesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) forecast to reach Orange levels, indicating conditions that are unhealthy for sensitive groups. Older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, outdoor workers, and people with heart disease, lung disease, or asthma are advised to limit strenuous outdoor activity and monitor for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.

While the advisory primarily targets vulnerable populations, officials note that healthy individuals are generally expected to face only a low risk from outdoor activities.

The air quality alert comes as New York City prepares for a significant heat wave beginning Wednesday and continuing through at least Sunday. Forecasts call for daytime heat indices ranging from 95 to 109 degrees, with little overnight cooling in many areas. Daily chances of thunderstorms are also expected, and some storms could become severe.

Emergency management officials are urging residents to take precautions before the hottest conditions arrive. Staying hydrated, limiting time outdoors during peak afternoon hours, wearing lightweight clothing, and checking on elderly neighbors and other vulnerable individuals are among the recommended safety measures.

Officials also remind residents to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and difficulty breathing. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention by calling 911.

With both poor air quality and extreme heat expected over the coming days, New Yorkers are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and remain prepared for changing weather conditions throughout the week.

An Air Quality Health Advisory is in effect for NYC today, June 29, due to ozone.

Young children, older adults, and people with heart or breathing conditions should avoid strenuous and prolonged outdoor activities: https://t.co/3uEcf9Ayfj pic.twitter.com/c6OwJzKMXl

— nychealthy (@nycHealthy) June 29, 2026