Community Corner

Air Quality Alert Issued for Essex County

The National Weather Service advises residents to remain indoors if possible.

A sweltering heat wave – and unhealthy air quality -- gripping Millburn is expected to linger throughout the week. The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert until Wednesday.

While it's already hot in Millburn, the worse is on the way, according to meteorologist Heather Buchman, blogging on Accuweather.com.

The high on Tuesday is expected to reach 94 degrees. By Friday, weather watchers say temperatures will reach 100 degrees.

Find out what's happening in Millburn-Short Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Meteorologists are predicting dangerous heat and poor air quality.

“The thing about this heat wave is you have the heat ...  you have the humidity ...  and you have no wind,” said AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Bernie Rayno.

Find out what's happening in Millburn-Short Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Christopher Freer, medical director for the emergency department at Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, cautions people to use common sense. Interviewed earlier this summer during the season’s first heat wave, Freer said on days like these, those most at risk are young children and the elderly.

"We don't see many problems with heat strokes, but we do see the elderly who aren't properly hydrated or don’t have air-conditioned apartments," said Freer.

The state Department of Environmental Protection said ozone levels will reach unhealthy levels especially for those in "sensitive groups," which include young children, the elderly and people with respiratory issues such as asthma. The heat and humidity are contributing to the poor air quality, according to the National Weather Service.

Authorities recommend that residents avoid strenuous outdoor activities Tuesday afternoon through the evening hours.

Staying Safe During a Heat Wave: 

The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert for Livingston. Here are ways to beat the heat.

Stay hydrated.

Try to avoid direct sunlight during afternoon hours. Look for shaded areas.

Stay inside an air-conditioned area, when possible.

Wear single layers of clothing with light colors.

Check often on seniors and children.

Take special precautions for pets, keeping them cool and well hydrated.

 

 


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