Trenton, N.J. – New Jersey residents, especially in Ocean County, Mercer, and Monmouth, should be prepared for elevated air pollution on Friday, July 25. The state has issued a Code Orange air quality alert across the central and southern parts of New Jersey, with unhealthy conditions expected for sensitive groups.
Code Orange Air Quality Alert
According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, ground-level ozone levels are expected to rise, especially in Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex, Mercer, Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties.
The Code Orange alert indicates that outdoor air may become unhealthy for sensitive groups like children, seniors, and individuals with heart or lung conditions.
The alert will be in effect from sunrise on Friday until midnight.
Areas Affected
Communities such as Toms River, Freehold, New Brunswick, Trenton, and Cherry Hill are among those advised to limit outdoor activities and avoid strenuous exercise. School events, outdoor camps, and sports activities may be impacted.
Health Recommendations
Health officials urge sensitive groups to stay indoors as much as possible, use air conditioning, and check on elderly neighbors or those with respiratory conditions. If you need to travel, consider using public transportation or carpooling to help reduce ozone formation.
Ongoing Air Quality Issues
This is the third Code Orange alert for the region this July, following hot and stagnant weather, which prevents air pollution from dispersing.
Stay Updated
The air quality advisory will remain in effect until midnight Friday, July 25. Further updates may be issued if conditions worsen. For more information, visit the NJDEP air quality website.
