Nova Scotia Wildfire Causes Air Quality Alert in Northeast

Latest forecasts reported that the Nova Scotia wildfire helped to cause code orange air quality alerts in the Northeast, especially in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

The raging wildfires in Canada raised concerns over the impact of smoke on air quality and health.

According to CNN's report, the report explained that eight of the wildfires in Nova Scotia began on Monday.

The report noted that three wildfires became out of control.

Meanwhile, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston explained that six illegal burns were discovered on Monday, urging to stop burning.

Due to the impact of the wildfires, the report noted that affected residents were affected. The government assured that they would provide necessary assistance, especially in keeping safe.

The report said that the challenging heat in Canada caused damage to lands and communities, causing an immediate province-wide burn ban to prevent more fires.

Air quality concerns in the Northeast

(Photo : by MEGAN ALBU/AFP via Getty Images)
Wild Hay area, Alberta, Canada on May 10, 2023. The raging wildfires in parts of Canada and Nova Scotia caused code orange air quality alerts in the Northeast, including Pennsylvania and New Jersey

In the latest forecasts, AccuWeather and CNN reported that hazy skies and wildfire smoke emerged in the Northeastern United States this week.

The forecast said a code orange alert unfolded in the Northeast, causing alerts in southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Based on the weather report, the alert explained that air pollution could become concerning, leading to unhealthy conditions, especially for people with medical conditions, children and older adults.

Due to the potential impact on air quality, the report explained that the microscopic particles could potentially cause risk to people, allowing them to enter their lungs.

People with respiratory diseases or with asthma could be at risk.

The Halifax, Nova Scotia report said about 16,500 people were evacuated, which also led to school cancellations.

Furthermore, the possible rainfall could likely help with the raging wildfires.

People in the affected areas should not return when they evacuated. It is best to wait for announcements until the wildfires become under control.

On the other hand, Fox Weather News reported that the wildfire smoke could be seen in parts of the Northeast, including West Virginia, Washington D.C, New York, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and New Jersey.

Weather in the Northeast

In May, Northeastern United States experienced summer-like temperatures and dry conditions, with little to no rainfall.

In the first week of June, the latest weather forecast said that the Northeast could expect a rebound to chilly conditions, with chances of rain on the weekend.

Also Read: Northeast US Weather Forecast: Brief Blast of Cool Air to Unload This Week

Cooldown from the hot temperatures could become likely from Friday afternoon to Saturday afternoon in Buffalo, Portland, Boston, New York, Washington and Pittsburgh.

On Friday, rain showers in Burlington and Portland could be possible.

The possible rain in the Northeast could become helpful in addressing the drought conditions in the region.

Furthermore, the air quality concerns in the Northeast could likely impact vulnerable people. Staying home and waiting until the hazy skies improve is best.