The state has issued an air quality alert for Friday, the first day of a long holiday weekend for locals and visitors alike.

Ozone levels are expected to rise to unhealthy levels along the coast from Kittery to Acadia National Park, according to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.

The elevated levels could cause children, healthy adults who exert themselves and individuals with asthma, bronchitis or COPD to experience reduced lung function and irritation. It can cause shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation, or an uncomfortable sensation in the chest.

The department recommends avoiding strenuous outdoor activity in the afternoon and checking the state Center for Disease Control and Prevention website for tips on asthma control.

Temperatures are expected to hit 88 degrees Friday before dropping to 84 on Saturday and the low 80s on Sunday and Monday.