MAINE (WGME) — The Maine Department of Environmental Protection has issued an air quality alert for portions of the state on Sunday.

According to the DEP, Ozone levels are expected to be unhealthy along the coast from Kittery through Acadia National Park with moderate levels of ozone for the Downeast Coastal region.

Children, people who exercise, and individuals suffering from a respiratory disease can experience reduced lung function and irritation at elevated ozone levels.

The DEP says when this happens, individuals may notice a shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation, and/or experience an uncomfortable sensation in their chest.

Some actions you can take to protect your health during periods of unhealthy air quality include:

Adjusting your schedule to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon.

While temperatures are not expected to reach the Heat Advisory level, temperatures will be much warmer than recent days. If you have concerns, please consult the Maine CDC website for information on the health impacts of extreme heat and appropriate actions to take. For more information, click here.

DEP’s toll free air quality hotline is 1-800-223-1196