Air Quality Alert Issued for Northern Maine as Smoke Triggers Health Concerns Until Tonight

Caribou, ME – A lingering Air Quality Alert remains in effect across northern and central Maine, with unhealthy conditions expected to persist through 11 p.m. tonight. Officials warn that the smoky, polluted air poses serious health risks, particularly for children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions.

Counties Affected by the Alert

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has included the following areas in the active alert:

Northern Somerset
All of Piscataquis
Northern and Central Penobscot
Northern Washington
Aroostook County

Residents in these regions are advised to stay indoors as much as possible and to limit outdoor exertion, especially during the afternoon and early evening when pollutant levels are expected to peak.

Health Risks and Symptoms

According to state health officials, sensitive individuals may experience symptoms such as:

Coughing
Shortness of breath
Throat irritation
Worsening asthma or heart conditions

“Avoid strenuous outdoor exercise and keep activities short,” recommends the Maine DEP. The agency urges families to take extra precautions for young children and the elderly, who are more vulnerable to poor air quality.

National Weather Service Forecasts Improvement

The US National Weather Service reports that pollutant levels will likely remain elevated until late evening. A shift in weather patterns is expected to improve air conditions overnight, with safer breathing levels anticipated by Monday morning.

However, officials caution that additional advisories may be issued if smoke remains trapped in the region’s atmosphere longer than predicted.