AUGUSTA – Ground-level ozone concentrations are expected to reach unhealthful levels in coastal and interior sections of the state today, according to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.

With an already dirty air mass overhead and another day with high heat and sunshine, ozone will reach levels above the federal health-based air quality standard.

Symptoms of unhealthy ozone levels include shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation and uncomfortable sensations in the chest, said a DEP press release.

It is best to reduce strenuous activity at midday and take it easy.