AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Environmental Protection is predicting unhealthy levels of ozone Wednesday for coastal regions of the state.

The air quality alert, which was posted Tuesday on the department’s website, said the unhealthy levels on the coast will continue into Thursday. Pollution levels for the rest of the state should be moderate.

High ozone levels can adversely affect children, people who exercise or exert themselves and individuals who suffer from respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis.

The DEP is advising people to avoid strenuous outdoor activities and avoid using aerosol products.