Wildfire smoke from Canada prompts air quality advisory in New York City and surrounding areas, with health warnings issued for sensitive groups.
Smoke from Canada Sparks New York Health Advisory
An air quality health advisory was issued Saturday for New York City and multiple regions across the state due to drifting smoke from Canada’s ongoing wildfires. The alert, issued by New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Department of Health (DOH), includes Long Island, the New York City Metro, Lower and Upper Hudson Valley, and the Adirondacks.
Regions Face ‘Unhealthy’ Air Conditions
The affected areas are forecasted to experience an Air Quality Index (AQI) above 100, with some zones reaching levels as high as 135. These readings fall under the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category, posing risks to children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions. Authorities advised limiting outdoor activities and using air purifiers or N95 masks when necessary.
Fires in Canada Force Evacuations
The advisory follows a surge in wildfires across Canada, particularly in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, where over 30,000 people were evacuated in recent months. According to Canadian officials, more than 550 fires are currently active, and approximately 6.1 million hectares have burned nationwide since the beginning of the season.
Previous Alerts and Political Ripples
This is not the first time Canadian wildfire smoke has impacted American cities. In July, similar alerts were issued in Chicago, and six U.S. lawmakers wrote to Canada’s ambassador, citing disruptions to Americans’ daily lives and calling for greater coordination.
Climate Change Driving Wildfire Intensity
Environmental scientists continue to point to climate change as a key factor behind the intensifying fire seasons. Canada, which is warming at twice the global average rate, is seeing significant environmental shifts—especially in its Arctic and boreal regions, where rising temperatures are drying out landscapes and increasing fire risk.
Calls for Cross-Border Collaboration
With air quality becoming a recurring public health issue on both sides of the border, experts and lawmakers are calling for more robust international strategies to mitigate the impact of wildfires and improve early warning systems. For now, residents in New York and surrounding states are urged to stay informed and take precautions.
