Published: June 23, 2009 10:29 pm         

UPDATE: High Indiana ozone levels forecast today

Terre Haute only portion of state not included in warning

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana environmental officials say high ozone levels are poised to cover most of the state as hot, sunny conditions cook up smoggy conditions.

Officials issued an advisory warning that high levels of the noxious ground-level gas will form Wednesday over all of Indiana's metropolitan areas except for Terre Haute in western Indiana.

Ozone forms when car exhaust, industrial emissions and gasoline vapors are cooked by heat and sunlight. It irritates the lungs and can cause breathing difficulties and coughing spells in people sensitive to poor air quality.

Children, the elderly and people with heart or lung conditions are most vulnerable.

Health officials say reducing or avoiding exertion or heavy outdoor work can help people avoid health problems during smoggy periods.