Environment Canada has issued a statement alerting residents of possible increased air pollution for July 18.

The statement affects all of York Region and other parts of the GTA. Environment Canada says “hot and sunny conditions are expected to cause increasing ground-level ozone concentrations in the area”.

Ozone is a colourless and odourless gas and a major component of smog. Ground-level ozone results from photochemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen and volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight.

Air pollution’s effect on health is measured with the Air Quality Health Index. Short-term, high-risk AQHI values are expected in the afternoon.

As a result of increased air pollution, individuals may experience symptoms of coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors and those with cardiovascular or lung disease are especially at risk, Environment Canada says.

Visit airhealth.ca for more information on how to reduce your health risk, as well as your current and forecast AQHI values.

Source: Environment Canada alerts of increased air pollution due to ozone | YorkRegion.com