New York Connect Team
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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued an air quality health advisory for fine particulate matter, in effect from midnight Saturday through midnight Sunday night.
The advisory applies to multiple counties across Upstate New York, including:
- Western and Central NY: Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Wayne, Northern Cayuga, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie.
- Adirondack Region: Northern Herkimer, Hamilton, and Northern Warren counties.
Air Quality Index exceeds safe levels
Air quality levels are expected to rise above an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100, indicating elevated levels of fine particulate pollution. The higher the AQI, the greater the health risk.
The New York State Department of Health advises residents—especially young children, seniors, and individuals with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions—to limit strenuous outdoor activities during the advisory period.
Health recommendations
- Avoid extended time outdoors, especially during high-pollution hours.
- Individuals with respiratory symptoms or pre-existing conditions should consult their physician if symptoms worsen.
- Monitor local air quality updates and follow public health guidance.
How to track the air quality in your neighborhood
You can track air quality in New York through the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s Air Quality Index by visiting dec.ny.gov. Air quality across the country can also be tracked through fire.airnow.gov.
More information
To check real-time air quality updates or learn more, visit the DEC’s website at https://on.ny.gov/nyaqi or call the Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-535-1345.