Ozone level up in Youngstown

YOUNGSTOWN

The level of ozone in Youngstown air slightly exceeded the moderate level, according to an alert issued today by the Eastgate Regional Council of Governments.

Youngstown registered 101 on the Air Quality Index, meaning it just barely crossed the threshold into being deemed “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” such as children and those with asthma.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cautions at-risk groups against prolonged heavy physical exertion. It defines “prolonged” as lasting more than four hours with only short breaks.

A “good” air quality index is 0-50. “Moderate” is 51-100, and 101-200 registers as “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” Higher index levels include “unhealthy,” “very unhealthy,” and “hazardous.” The U.S. EPA issues the Air Quality Index. Visit airnow.gov.index to learn more.