Warning issued on poor air quality

An air quality alert has been issued for Nassau and Suffolk Tuesday, and officials are also warning of dangerous ultraviolet sun exposure conditions.

The air quality alert is in effect from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The UV index of 9 -- on a scale of 1 to 11 -- means people should limit exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and use protective clothing and sunscreen outdoors, according to the EPA.

The alerts come as temperatures continue to rise Tuesday, with forecasters at the National Weather Service predicting a high of 86 degrees. The temperature is expected to climb into the low 90s on Wednesday and could approach 100 Thursday before showers and thunderstorms make their way into the area Friday.

Rip current risks were low Tuesday.

An air quality alert is issued when the state Department of Environmental Conservation predicts that ground-level ozone, a pollutant that can cause respiratory problems, will exceed acceptable levels.

During an alert period, officials recommend that people limit strenuous outdoor physical activity, especially those who are young or who have respiratory issues, such as asthma or heart disease. If you are uncertain about your sensitivity to elevated air-pollution levels, officials suggest consulting a doctor.