Special Air Quality Statement issued for Kingston and area

Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for Kingston, Odessa, Frontenac Islands, Napanee and Consecon.

“High levels of air pollution are expected today. A Special Air Quality Statement is in effect due to the possibility of deteriorating air quality. Hot and sunny conditions are expected to cause increasing ground-level ozone concentrations in the area,” said Environment Canada. “Moderate risk Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) values are expected throughout the day with the potential of short-term high risk AQHI values in the afternoon.”

Location	Observed Conditions	Sunday	Sunday night	Monday	Monday night
Kingston	4 Moderate Risk	6 Moderate Risk	5 Moderate Risk	5 Moderate Risk	4 Moderate Risk

Environment Canada expects similar conditions to persist into Monday.

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk, said Environment Canada. “People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.”

If you are experiencing symptoms, such as coughing or throat irritation, Environment Canada says you should consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities until the special air quality statement is lifted. Exposure to air pollution is particularly a health concern for people with heart or breathing problems, those with diabetes, children and the elderly.