Heat, Air Quality Alert for Tuesday

The National Weather Service has issued both a heat advisory and air quality alert for Tuesday as local temperatures are expected to reach near 100 degrees.

The heat advisory and air quality alerts are in effect from noon until 8 p.m. today. Heat index values are forecast between 102 and 106 degrees.

The National Weather Service warns that heat-related illnesses are possible this afternoon and that people should take extra precautions if they are working or spending time outside, including drinking plenty of fluids and taking frequent breaks in the shade or inside in air conditioning. Heat stroke is an emergency, the National Weather Service cautions, and 911 should be called for anyone overcome by symptoms.

The Maryland Department of the Environment has also issued a Code Orange air quality alert for Tuesday, meaning “that air pollution concentrations within the region maybe unhealthy for sensitive groups,” including children, asthma sufferers, the elderly and those with heart and lung disease, according to the National Weather Service.

“The affects of air pollution can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors,” according to the National Weather Service.