Poor Air Quality in New York City Continues Due to Smoke from Canadian Wildfires

Poor air quality in the city has continued on Wednesday and will continue through at least Thursday, according to weather reports.

“We are in the worst of conditions, but the health and air quality advisory has been extended to 11:59 p.m. Thursday, which our teams have been anticipating.

“Protect yourself and limit your outdoor activities,” Mayor Eric Adams said in a social media post.

We’re in the worst of the conditions, but the Air Quality Health Advisory has been extended until 11:59 pm Thursday — which our teams have been anticipating.

Mask up and limit your outdoor activities.

See real-time air quality: pic.twitter.com/EfceKRUu6Y

— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) June 7, 2023

This situation is due to the intense forest fires that occurred in the eastern provinces of Quebec, in Canada, which are affecting our region.

The National Meteorological Service put a message on social networks combining images where it is observed how the air deteriorates with the passing of the hours.

“Look at this almost unbelievable time lapse of wildfire smoke consuming the World Trade Center and the New York City skyline.

“People vulnerable to poor air quality, including the elderly and young children, should limit time outdoors if possible,” the Weather Service message reads.

Check out this almost unbelievable time-lapse of wildfire smoke consuming the World Trade Center and the New York City skyline.

Those vulnerable to poor air quality, including seniors and young children, should limit time outdoors if possible.

More: pic.twitter.com/mtKtLun8lN

— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) June 7, 2023

That is why the authorities have warned that the air quality is not safe and can affect the health of New Yorkers, due to the pollution particles caused by the same smoke.

The mayor called this an “unprecedented event” and advises vulnerable New Yorkers to stay indoors and wear masks if they have to go out.

Authorities say it can affect the lungs and heart.

The US environmental protection agency said cloudy skies, reduced visibility and the smell of burning wood will be noticeable for several days.

As smoke from wildfires in Canada continues to blanket New York City, @NYCMayor Eric Adams is cautioning all New Yorkers to stay indoors, or use a high-quality mask when venturing outside. pic.twitter.com/ZiiAxFX0Oj

— Spectrum News NY1 (@NY1) June 7, 2023

The mayor urges residents to limit outdoor activities unless absolutely necessary, and he canceled outdoor activities at New York public schools on Wednesday.

He asked that older children and people with lung diseases such as asthma stay inside with doors and windows closed, and the use of masks can lessen the harmful effects.

“We advise all New Yorkers to limit outdoor activities as much as possible. People with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as heart or respiratory problems, as well as children and older adults may be especially sensitive and should stay indoors at this time. Adams said.

“Although all students must go to school tomorrow, New York City public schools will not offer any outdoor activities on Wednesday,” he added.

For her part, the governor sent a message on twitter in which she says:

“New Yorkers: Smoke from the Canadian wildfires will continue to affect air quality across much of the state today. Our team is closely monitoring conditions.

Please take precautions to limit exposure, especially if you are part of a vulnerable group.”

New Yorkers: smoke from Canadian wildfires will continue to impact air quality in much of the state today. Our team is monitoring conditions closely.

Please take precautions to limit exposure, especially if you’re part of a sensitive group. pic.twitter.com/ampeUYpw2f

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) June 7, 2023

Additionally, the Health department is asking that all carriage horses be removed from the streets until the air quality improves.

For those New Yorkers who live with pets, it is recommended:

1. Limit outdoor activities, reducing the time your pets spend outdoors and thus helping to minimize their exposure to harmful pollutants and allergens.

2. Create a safe indoor environment by ensuring adequate ventilation in your home and keeping windows closed to prevent the entry of outdoor contaminants. Use air purifiers or filters to improve indoor air quality.

3. Watch for symptoms, looking out for any signs of respiratory distress or discomfort in your pets, such as coughing, sneezing, wheezing, or labored breathing. If you notice any worrisome symptoms, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Although conditions are expected to be foggy Wednesday morning, NY1 forecasters say conditions will fade by afternoon.