Canadian Wildfire Smoke Triggers Statewide Air Quality Advisory

Wildfire smoke billowing south from Canada is expected to drive air quality to dangerous levels across New York State on Wednesday, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced, calling on residents — particularly those with health vulnerabilities — to protect themselves.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation put out a fine particulate matter Air Quality Health Advisory covering counties in Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York and Western New York. Although those regions face the worst of the conditions, state officials cautioned that the remainder of the state, Long Island included, may see temporary surges in smoke-driven pollution along with widespread haze during the day.

"Distant wildfires have impacted New York State in recent years, and this week unfortunately will be no different with expected hazy skies and poor air quality," Hochul said. "I strongly encourage New Yorkers to stay informed and take appropriate precautions to stay safe. Sensitive groups should take particular caution."

DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said a combination of elevated heat and smoke drifting in from Canada had produced conditions that may make some outdoor activities challenging, especially for people in at-risk populations. She encouraged residents to heed the governor's guidance and minimize their exposure to polluted air.

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald advised New Yorkers to cut back on vigorous outdoor exertion in order to reduce the risk of harmful health effects. People most susceptible to poor air quality — including young children and individuals with underlying conditions like asthma or heart disease — should stay inside whenever possible, he said. Anyone whose symptoms worsen should seek medical advice.

The smoke was expected to reach western sections of the state in the early morning hours and then sweep across the rest of New York as the day progressed. Hazy skies were anticipated statewide.

The DEC and the Department of Health monitor air quality through a network of more than 50 measurement stations around New York. The agencies release Air Quality Health Advisories when forecasted pollution levels — whether ozone or fine particulate matter — are projected to push the Air Quality Index above 100. Up-to-date forecasts and conditions are available at airnow.gov.

Both the DEC and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services said they would keep a close watch on conditions and update advisories as circumstances warrant.