PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Thursday has been declared an Air Quality Alert day, meaning there will be free rides on all regular Rhode Island Public Transit Authority buses and trolleys
Lenny Giuliano, the R.I. Department of Environmental Management's air quality expert, said Thursday is expected to bring unhealthy air conditions, with very humid air and west to southwest winds, in the southern part of the state Thursday afternoon. Poor air quality is because of ozone, which is formed by the reaction of pollutants to high temperatures and sunlight.
To help reduce emissions, Rhode Islanders are asked to limit car travel and the use of small engines and charcoal lighter fuel.
Unhealthy levels of ozone can cause throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, susceptibility to respiratory infection and aggravation of asthma and other respiratory ailments. Heavy activity worsens the symptoms. People at risk are advised to stay in an air-conditioned environment if possible in the afternoon and early evening.
The unhealthy levels of ozone are expected to last as long as the hot sunny weather is present, Giuliano said.