State officials issue air quality alert July 20

High temperatures July 20 may present health risks to sensitive groups, state officials said.

A code orange air-quality action day has been announced by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, warning people to avoid strenuous outdoor activities if possible.

Weather conditions – sunny skies with temperatures in the mid- to high-90s – will promote formation of ozone, which can exacerbate heart and respiratory conditions.

Moderate ozone levels can be unhealthy for sensitive groups, such as young children and the elderly.

Ozone is a colorless gas that is the main component of smog. It is formed from a chemical reaction in the lower atmosphere on hot, sunny days with little wind. Ozone can damage lung tissue and aggravate respiratory problems.

The National Weather Service shows temperatures are expected to reach 97 degrees in Georgetown July 20, with a heat index of 105. A heat advisory for the area also is in effect from noon to 7 p.m.

Party cloudy skies should lower ozone levels by Friday, July 21, although forecasts show temperatures will remain high – around 96 degrees with a heat index as high as 104.

The Delaware State Climatologist's Office shows the average temperature for July 20-21 is 77.2 degrees.

For more about air quality alerts, go to dnrec.delaware.gov/AQI/Pages/AQIForecast.aspx or call the Division of Air Quality at 302-739-9402.

For health-related questions, call the Division of Public Health at 302-739-6619.