Rockport, ME Severe Weather Alertstar_ratehome

...AIR QUALITY ALERT IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Air
Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for particle pollution until
11 PM EDT this evening.

Particle pollution levels are in the Unhealthy and Unhealthy for
Sensitive Groups range this morning for the Western Mountains,
Western Interior, and Southwest Coastal regions. As well as
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups for the Eastern Interior, Mid-Coast,
and Downeast Coastal regions. A plume of smoke moved into Maine
overnight bringing much higher particle pollution values than
previously expected. As the day progresses, the plume of smoke is
expected to keep moving and values should drop down but air quality
will continue to be a health concern for much of the day for these
regions.

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection recommends that
individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to
reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be
especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants
include the very young, the elderly, those with pre-existing
respiratory problems such as asthma, those with heart disease and
anyone who is working hard outdoors. It is okay to be active
outdoors. But if you experience symptoms such as shortness of
breath, coughing, throat irritation or an uncomfortable sensation in
your chest please consider limiting the intensity and duration of
your outdoor activities.

A toll free air quality hotline has been established so Maine
residents can stay informed on the air quality situations. The toll
free number is: 1-800-223-1196.

Additionally the Maine Department of Environmental Protection has
the air quality forecast available on the web at
www.maine.gov/dep/air/aqforecast.

...BEACH HAZARDS STATEMENT REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 8 AM EDT THIS
MORNING THROUGH THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Temperatures in the 70s may cause people to underestimate
the dangers of water temperatures which are currently in the mid
to upper 50s in Penobscot Bay.

* WHERE...Knox and Coastal Waldo Counties.

* WHEN...From 8 AM EDT this morning through this evening.

* IMPACTS...The cold water temperatures can quickly cause
hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. When the water
temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person
could lose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish
simple tasks. Anyone on boats or paddlecraft should use extreme
caution to avoid this threat.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Beach Hazards Statement is issued on days when a significant
number of boats and paddlecraft are expected to be out on the
water and when warm air temperatures may cause people to
underestimate the danger of the cold water. Paddle smart from the
start. Always wear your life jacket. Be aware of wind conditions,
tides, and localized currents.

All boaters and paddlers are highly encouraged to contact the
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons at
www.wow.uscgaux/i_want_a_usc/index.php to receive a FREE vessel
check. This is a convenient, no consequence way to ensure your
vessel is outfitted with all required safety equipment.
Additionally, please label your paddlecraft with your contact
information (IF FOUND Sticker) in the event it is found adrift on
the water.

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