Smoke from wildfires in Quebec prompted teh Department of Energy and Envionrmental Protection to issue an air quality alert for Tuesday. 

According to DEEP smoke from wildfires over Quebec elevated the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air Monday night. By daybreak Tuesday these levels were expected to exceed Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups levels in Western CT and cover the entire State.

According to Ct.gov Air Quality Index and AirNow.gov the air quality in most of the areas in the state is rated unhealthy for sensitive groups. According to Air Now people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teens should choose less strenuous activities or shortening the amount of time you are active outdoors to reduce their exposure. But there may be times during the day when the air quality is okay for outdoor activities. Check current air quality to see if now is a good time for you to be active outdoors.

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has provided a scale called the Air Quality Index (AQI) for rating air quality. This scale is based on the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAOS). Alternatively, you may call the Air Quality Index Hotline at (800) 249-1234 or (860) 424-4167 for the forecast or link to Airnow.gov for the most current air quality information.

chooks@record-journal.com203-317-2279