Maine DEP expects ozone concentrations to reach unhealthy levels on Monday, June 7, 2021
AUGUSTA, June 6, 2021 — Ground-level ozone concentrations will be climbing in Maine on Monday June 7, 2021 and are expected to reach unhealthy levels according to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Ozone levels have been high upwind since June 2nd. High levels began around Lake Michigan and have been slowly migrating eastward. By Saturday June 5th southern New England had very high levels of ozone even reaching into the Unhealthy (red) category. Transport winds are expected to direct the higher values to Maine on Monday. The unhealthy levels of ozone are possible along the entire coastline.
At elevated ozone levels, children, healthy adults who exert themselves, and individuals suffering from a respiratory disease such as asthma, bronchitis or COPD can experience reduced lung function and irritation. When this happens, individuals may notice a shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation, and/or experience an uncomfortable sensation in their chest.
Maine Insights Newsmagazine 