Air Quality Alert Issued for Ocean, Monmouth

Tuesday morning brought sunny skies to the area, but meteorologists are warning of high ozone levels and coming storms.

An air quality alert has been issued for Ocean, Monmouth and several other New Jersey counties due to a spike in ground-level ozone, an air pollutant that occurs when sunlight breaks down other toxins.

Today's light southerly winds, warm temperatures and increased humidity are exacerbating the problem in New Jersey, according to a warning from the National Weather Service. Ozone levels will likely peak in the afternoon and early evening, the warning said.

Vulnurable people, including children, the elderly and those with respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD should avoid strenuous outdoor activity, according to the NWS.

Meteorologists have also issued a hazardous weather outlook as they eye a cold front expected to move into the area this evening, bringing with it the chance for strong and possibly severe thunderstorms in southern New Jersey.

The NWS is warning of potential for hail and heavy rain that could bring flooding in poor drainage areas.