Air Quality Alert Issued for New York Due to Canadian Wildfire Smoke
Summary:
The New York State Department of Health issued an air quality alert this weekend affecting multiple regions, including New York City, as wildfire smoke from Canada causes increased pollution levels. The advisory remains in effect through Sunday night, with the air quality forecast categorized as “unhealthy for sensitive groups.”
An air quality alert has been issued by the New York State Department of Health this weekend due to smoke from wildfires in Canada.
The air quality health advisory covers New York City and the surrounding metropolitan area, including Long Island, as well as the Lower Hudson Valley, Upper Hudson Valley, and the Adirondacks.
The advisory went into effect at noon Saturday and was extended until 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
In addition to the smoke and haze, more severe storms could impact the Tri-State Area today following another hot day in the region on Saturday. Record-breaking heat on Friday also contributed to thunderstorms that caused significant damage on Staten Island and in New Jersey.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation said Saturday the air quality forecast is "unhealthy for sensitive groups."
According to the National Weather Service, the air quality index (AQI) is expected to exceed 100 and could reach up to 120 on Sunday in New York City, indicating increased health risks due to fine particles in the air.
The AQI measures the severity of air pollution and categorizes associated health risks. Higher numbers reflect greater risk. A reading between 0-50 is considered "good" air quality.
New York health officials advise limiting strenuous outdoor activities to lower the risk of adverse health effects when pollution levels are elevated, according to the National Weather Service.
"People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, and those with preexisting respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Those with symptoms should consider consulting their personal physician," the National Weather Service alert states.