Air quality and health consultation has been issued for New York City and its surrounding areas due to wildfire smoking in Canada.
In a post published by the New York State Department of Environmental Protection (DEC) and the Department of Health (DOH) on X, consulting on Long Island, New York City Metro, Lower Hudson Valley, Upper Hudson Valley and Adirondax on Saturday.
Authorities warn that air quality in these areas is “unhealthy for sensitive groups”.
Wildfires in Canada force thousands of people to leave their homes, and smoke drifting across the border has triggered air quality problems throughout the northern United States.
On Saturday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) for most parts of New York State is expected to exceed 100 and could reach 135.
AQI measures the severity of air pollution and classifies health risks. The higher the quantity, the less safe the air.
This is not an air quality alert from the US authorities due to smoke from Canadian wildfires.
In mid-July, Chicago issued a similar alert and recommended other precautions for babies and older people.
The political implications of wildfire smoke have also reached Washington.
In early July, six members of Congress wrote to the Canadian ambassador complaining that the smoke from wildfires made it difficult for Americans to enjoy the summer.
Authorities say there are currently more than 550 active fires in Canada, with the most concentrated in Manitoba. Over the past year, 6.1 million hectares (15 million acres) of land have been burned across the country.
May and June have been particularly devastated in western Canada for several months, with about 30,000 people being forced to evacuate the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, where local governments declared a state of emergency.
Scientists have been linking the intensified wildfire season to climate change.
Canada is It is believed to be twice the global averageScientists warn that its Arctic region has nearly tripled its heating.
Health & Wellness Contributor
A wellness enthusiast and certified nutrition advisor, Meera covers everything from healthy living tips to medical breakthroughs. Her articles aim to inform and inspire readers to live better every day.
