Headline:
Air Quality Alert issued July 17 at 3:35PM EDT by NWS Gray ME
Event:
Air Quality Alert
Urgency:
Unknown
Effective:
July 17, 2026 - 12:35pm
Expires:
July 18, 2026 - 9:00pm
Description:
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Air
Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for particle pollution from
10 AM Saturday to midnight EDT Saturday night.
Particle pollution levels are expected to rise into the Unhealthy for
Sensitive Groups range during the day on Saturday. Smoke from
wildfires in western Ontario and Manitoba is expected to move back
into Maine during the day on Saturday.
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection recommends that
individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to
reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be
especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants
include the very young, the elderly, those with pre-existing
respiratory problems such as asthma, those with heart disease and
anyone who is working hard outdoors. It is okay to be active
outdoors. But if you experience symptoms such as shortness of
breath, coughing, throat irritation or an uncomfortable sensation in
your chest please consider limiting the intensity and duration of
your outdoor activities.
A toll free air quality hotline has been established so Maine
residents can stay informed on the air quality situations. The toll
free number is: 1-800-223-1196.
Additionally the Maine Department of Environmental Protection has
the air quality forecast available on the web at
www.maine.gov/dep/air/aqforecast.
Area Description:
Northern Oxford; Northern Franklin; Central Somerset; Southern Oxford; Southern Franklin; Southern Somerset; Interior York; Central Interior Cumberland; Androscoggin; Kennebec; Interior Waldo; Coastal York; Coastal Cumberland; Sagadahoc; Lincoln; Knox; Coastal Waldo; Interior Cumberland Highlands
Forcast Office:
NWS Gray ME
Sender: