More near record heat and poor air quality today

(WSYR-TV, Syracuse) The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an Air Quality alert until 11 pm today for all of New York State.  Because of high levels of ozone forecasted this afternoon it is advised that those people with pre-existing health conditions and young children avoid strenuous outdoor activities in the alert area. 

The reason for the high ozone levels is the stagnant fair weather pattern that has been over central New York for the past few days.  High pressure down at the ground and aloft is causing sunny days and temperatures that continue to rise.  In fact, we are likely to see near record heat this afternoon as we reach into the low 90s. The current record today is 94° set in 1953.  With our weather pattern not changing over the next couple of days it is likely that the air quality alerts may be extended into tomorrow as the hot weather is forecast to continue through Friday.