Air quality officials in North Carolina have issued a health notice for air pollution in several portions of the state.

Forecasters have predicted Code Orange conditions for the Charlotte and Triad metropolitan areas, as well as high-elevation areas near Asheville on Tuesday. Code Orange means air quality in these areas is likely to be unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Officials say the primary pollutant is ozone, high levels of which occur during hot, sunny afternoons with stagnant air.

People who are sensitive to air pollution are advised to avoid moderate exertion outdoors. Sensitive groups include children and the elderly who are active outside, people who work or exercise outdoors, and those with heart conditions and respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema.