Air Quality Alert issued July 17 at 12:43AM EDT by NWS Wilmington OH (details ...)
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency has issued a statewide Air Quality Advisory for the entire state of Ohio as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to adversely impact air quality.
Pollutants across the state are expected to range from the 'Unhealthy For Sensitive Groups' category in the southwest part of the state to the 'Unhealthy' category in the rest of the state. Hourly concentrations at times may reach the 'Very Unhealthy' to 'Hazardous' categories.
It is recommended, when possible, to avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially those with heart disease and respiratory conditions like asthma. Watch for symptoms including wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in the nose, throat, and eyes.
For additional information, please visit the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's website at epa.ohio.gov.
Special Weather Statement issued July 17 at 5:19PM EDT by NWS Wilmington OH (details ...)
At 519 PM EDT, a strong thunderstorm was located over Waynesfield, moving northeast at 10 mph.
HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 45 mph and very heavy rain.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Visibility will be poor and hydroplaning is possible.
Locations impacted include... Alger, Waynesfield, Roundhead, Mcguffey, Silver Creek, Jumbo, New Hampshire, Walton, and State Route 195 at State Route 235.
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a sturdy building.
Motorists should slow down and use extra caution.
To report hazardous weather conditions, go to our website at weather.gov/iln and submit your report via social media, when you can do so safely.
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Thursday, February 24th, 2011
Photo by Mark Pummell/The Daily Standard

Ron Mills uses a drill to help weatherize a home on South Main Street in St. Marys on Wednesday. Mills is employed by Sources Community Network Services, based in Celina, which offers a variety of services for income-eligible residents in Mercer and Auglaize counties.

Related online story:
CELINA - A local organization that helps the needy may be forced to close if proposed federal funding cuts become effective.
Debra Farrell, directo [More]
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