Canadian wildfires lead to unhealthy air quality in New York City for the second time this season.
Canadian wildfires are significantly impacting air quality across the New York City metropolitan area, prompting health advisories from local and state officials. As fine particulate matter released from the fires enters the atmosphere, residents are urged to take precautions for their health.
On Saturday afternoon, New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) reported that the air quality index (AQI) in the city was expected to reach levels between 101 and 150, categorized as unhealthy for sensitive groups. By the evening, the situation had not improved; the AQI remained in the unhealthy range at 137, indicating potential health risks for individuals particularly sensitive to air pollution conditions.
In response to deteriorating air quality, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Governor Kathy Hochul issued a comprehensive air quality health advisory for a broad swath of the eastern half of New York state. This advisory encompasses Long Island, the NYC metro area, the lower and upper Hudson Valley, and extends into the Adirondacks. The air quality warnings are valid from 10 a.m. to midnight, reflecting the widespread impacts of wildfire smoke.
The primary hazardous component identified by the DEC is fine particulate matter (PM 2.5), which consists of minuscule solid particles or liquid droplets present in the air with a diameter of 2.5 microns or less. These particles, which typically arise from combustion processes—such as those found in vehicle emissions, power generation, and wildfires—can lead to various health complications. Short-term exposure may provoke irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath. More severely, individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or heart disease, as well as vulnerable populations like children and the elderly, may experience exacerbated health issues under these conditions.
To mitigate risks associated with poor air quality, individuals are advised to monitor air-quality alerts closely. Recommendations include staying indoors and utilizing air conditioning and air purifiers. For particularly sensitive individuals, creating a designated “safe room” with a sealed air conditioning unit can provide additional protection from outdoor pollutants. If outdoor activities are necessary, wearing a properly fitted mask, such as an N95 or KN95, is recommended to help filter harmful particles.
As air quality continues to fluctuate due to the wildfire situation in Canada, monitoring updates and adhering to health advisories remains essential for protecting public health in the affected areas.
