States across the Easter seaboard were bracing for some of the worst air quality in their cities as changing wind directions pushed pollutant-rich smoke from the wildfires afflicting Canada turning the sky color virtually orange. Seventy-five million American were under air quality warnings across the nation. There are at least 400 wildfires in Canada, with 200 of them described as being “out of control”.
“We are expecting air quality to continue to deteriorate throughout tomorrow and the air quality health advisory remains in effect until Thursday night,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams in several tweets, advising residents to stay indoors. The Mayor also addressed the media to give residents an update on the smokey haze engulfing the city.
The Canada wildfires have dangerously impacted the air quality in New York City, leading to reduced visibility and potential health risks for residents. Public health measures and collaborative efforts are being undertaken to address the immediate effects and mitigate potential harm. These wildfires, which have been intensified by climate change and other factors, have resulted in a large-scale release of smoke and pollutants into the atmosphere. As a consequence, New York City residents are experiencing diminished air quality, posing potential risks to their health and overall well-being.
We are expecting air quality to continue to deteriorate throughout tomorrow and the Air Quality Health Advisory remains in effect until late Thursday night.
Mask up — especially our older New Yorkers and young children, and anyone with breathing or heart issues.
Limit your… pic.twitter.com/l4sdnx1BOT
— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) June 7, 2023
The prevailing winds and atmospheric conditions have carried the smoke plumes from the Canadian wildfires across long distances, impacting air quality in New York City. The fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants present in the smoke have caused a deterioration in air quality, leading to decreased visibility, hazy skies, and potential health concerns for vulnerable individuals.
The degraded air quality can have adverse effects on human health. The fine particles present in the smoke can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, potentially causing or exacerbating respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments. Individuals with pre-existing conditions, children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to the health risks associated with poor air quality.
In response to the compromised air quality, public health officials in New York City have taken measures to mitigate the potential health impacts. These measures include issuing air quality advisories and warnings, urging residents to limit outdoor activities, and encouraging the use of air purifiers or masks in affected areas. Additionally, healthcare providers are monitoring and advising individuals with respiratory conditions to take necessary precautions and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
The Wildfires in Canada make New York City look like this 😳#AirQualityAlert pic.twitter.com/ba8hISL5O5
— David Leavitt 🎮🎲🧙♂️🌈 (@David_Leavitt) June 7, 2023