New York Air Quality Alert: What You Need to Know Today

If the air feels a little heavier than usual today, you're not imagining things.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for fine particulate matter, and it’s in effect until midnight tonight, Tuesday, August 5.

Who’s Impacted by the Alert?

The advisory affects a big chunk of Western, Central, and Northern New York. That includes counties like Niagara, Monroe, Erie, Onondaga, Oneida, Tompkins, Steuben, Broome, and Cayuga. Cities under the alert include Rochester, Buffalo, Syracuse, Elmira, Utica, Binghamton, and Niagara Falls. Basically, if you're in upstate New York today, this is something you’ll want to pay attention to.

What Does This Mean for You?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to top 100, which means conditions are considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. That includes kids, older adults, and anyone with heart or respiratory issues like asthma or COPD.

The main concern is PM2.5, which stands for fine particulate matter, tiny particles that can get deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream. It's not something you want to be breathing in, especially if you're in a vulnerable group.

Take It Easy Outside Today

The New York State Department of Health recommends keeping strenuous outdoor activities to a minimum today. That means things like running, yard work, or long bike rides might be better saved for another day, especially if you or someone in your household has breathing issues.

If you have breathing problems and have to be outside, consider wearing a mask (those N95s still come in handy) and taking frequent breaks indoors.

Get our free mobile app

How to Check the Air Quality Near You

Want to see what the air looks like in your neighborhood in real-time? You can head to: The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation’s Air Quality Index. You can also call the Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-535-1345 for updates.