Wildfire Smoke Invades the Northeast of the U.S.

The smoke and haze from wildfires ravaging areas in eastern Canada have hit the eastern United States hard. Dangerous fine particles have degraded air quality in regions as far away as South Carolina, turning the sky gray and brown. In New York City, which for some time early Wednesday (7) was second only to New Delhi in terms of high air pollution levels worldwide, authorities warned about health risks and advised vulnerable individuals to wear high-quality masks when leaving home.New York Authorities Warn Smoke May Last Several DaysNew York City officials warned that residents living under health alerts due to poor air quality should prepare for a “multi-day event.” “There is no plan or manual for this type of problem,” said Mayor Eric Adams at a press conference, calling the smoke from the Canadian wildfire that engulfed the city an “unprecedented event.” The air quality in New York City on Tuesday night reached its worst levels since the 1960s, officials said, with an air quality index exceeding 200, meaning the risk of health effects is greater for everyone.Where is the Smoke Coming From?The smoke – originating from wildfires in Quebec – is being directed south by a low-pressure system rotating counterclockwise near Halifax, Nova Scotia. This system is moving very slowly westward. It will eventually weaken, but until then it will continue to channel smoke over the most populous corridor of the United States. Early Wednesday, Canadian authorities reported more than 400 active wildfires, with over 240 listed as “out of control.” Firefighters reached the affected areas as residents battled thick smoke, and in some places, evacuations were ordered. Chibougamau, a small town in Quebec about 7.5 hours’ drive from Montreal, was the latest to order evacuations. The mayor declared a state of emergency.Five Main Ways to Protect Yourself from Wildfire SmokeExperts advise: limit your exposure and stay indoors – with an air purifier, if possible. Keep windows and doors closed; if you have air conditioning, use it to recirculate air. If you don’t have air conditioning and temperatures are high, consider going somewhere that does, experts recommend. In your car, set the air to recirculation. Exercise indoors – you breathe harder when exercising and therefore will inhale more harmful particles outdoors. Also, avoid long walks. Be aware of local air quality – there are several apps and websites that provide real-time data on air quality. Use a mask capable of filtering fine particles, such as an N95. When your mask starts to look brown or dirty, throw it away. Breathing wildfire smoke can negatively affect anyone, experts say. The most vulnerable individuals include those with heart or lung issues, pregnant women, and the elderly. Young children and infants are also at greater risk of adverse health effects.Source: The Washington Post