Smokes From Canada Wildfires Bring Low Air Quality In New York

The smokes brought by the wildfires in Canada have adversely affected the air quality in New York City.

Residents have been advised against the low quality in the city, with authorities saying that a haze will be observed in the area.

(Photo : Getty Images/Spencer Platt)

Air quality

Authorities said that New York's air quality index was at a "moderate level" of 52, which presents a potential risk to people who are unusually sensitive to air pollutants.

The AQI levels in the metro area are forecasted to go as high as 60, which is still considered as "moderate," according to an update provided by the New York state department of environmental conservation.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said that the current forecasts indicate that a plume of wildfire smoke could reach New York City around, which will cause noticeably hazy skies.

On Monday, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has forecasted a moderate Air Quality Index (AQI) of 55 - stating that it could bring some risk to people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.

"While we continue to actively monitor potential air quality concerns for Monday morning, currently, the impacts are projected to be mild, though New Yorkers will likely see hazy skies in the morning," Adams said.

"Throughout the day tomorrow, New Yorkers should listen to their bodies, especially if they have any preexisting health conditions and take any necessary precautions to ensure they stay safe. We will continue to update New Yorkers as forecasts solidify," he added.

Read Also: New York City Weather: Worst Air Quality Emerge in City as Unhealthy Smoke Unfolds in Northeast

Environmental issue

According to New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) Commissioner Zach Iscol said that air quality is more than an environmental issue as it can also be deemed as a public health issue.

Iscol said that a moderate AQI has suggested that those with heightened sensitivities should be cautious for its effects.

Experts said that if one would begin to feel symptoms, such as having scratchy throat or watery eyes, he or she should take time to stay indoors.

They said that if residents are sensitive to worsening air quality, they should limit their time outdoors or reduce their strenuous activity outdoors.

Officials pointed out that the climate and one's health are connected and it is crucial that people are armed with the information they need to make safe and healthy choices.

So far, New York City has recorded the observance of clean air on average. For the last three years (2017, 2018, and 2019), New York's air quality index (AQI) has remained less than 50, or "good."

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines "good" air quality as air that poses little to no risk to one's health.

Since at least 2017, New York air quality has consistently fallen within this target (2017, 2018, and 2019 averaged 6.8, 7, and 7 μg/m3 respectively).

Furthermore, these annual PM2.5 levels are comparable to the air quality of Taos, New Mexico and Waco, Texas (6.9 and 6.8 μg/m3, respectively).

The present New York air pollution levels continue to threaten communities, particularly lower-income neighborhoods and it also raise the risk for heart and lung health complications.

The New York Health Department estimated that PM2.5 pollution contributes to more than 3,000 deaths and 2,000 hospital admissions for coronary and respiratory conditions on a yearly basis.

Related Article: Hazy Skies in US: Poor Air Quality Alerts Issued in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania

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