Winds are expected to bring potential near-surface smoke impacts across the state.
Governor Kathy Hochul gave New Yorkers an update on the expected air quality for the week. The state continues to closely monitor air quality for potential impacts from the Canadian wildfires as well as ozone and other pollutants. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s current statewide air quality forecast for Wednesday, June 28 shows that unhealthy air quality has the potential to affect much of the state, with smoke billowing Wednesday night. Winds are expected to bring potential near-surface smoke impacts statewide as a cold front moves from the northwest into western New York early Wednesday morning and reaches the southern portion of the state Wednesday night.
“As we keep an eye on the changing forecast, New Yorkers should brace for a possible resurgence of smoke from the Canadian wildfires,” Governor Hocher said. “I encourage everyone to stay vigilant, especially if you are vulnerable to air pollution, to stay up to date and take steps to protect yourself.”
While forecast uncertainty remains, New Yorkers should brace for potentially elevated levels of fine particulate pollution from the smog on Wednesday. The Department of Environmental Protection and Health will issue air quality health advice to areas affected by the smoke on Tuesday afternoon, if necessary. Air Quality Health Advisories are issued when ozone or fine particulate matter is expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100.
The New York State Department of Health recommends taking necessary precautions. Steps individuals can take to reduce risk include:
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When the AQI is greater than 100, vulnerable New Yorkers should avoid outdoor exertion and watch for symptoms when exposed. Susceptible individuals include those with cardiovascular disease (eg, congestive heart failure, history of previous heart attack) or pulmonary disease (eg, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), as well as children younger than 18 years, 65 years of age and above adults and pregnant women. -
When the AQI is greater than 150, all New Yorkers should avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and vulnerable groups should avoid exposure to outdoors, especially those who are pregnant, who may be more prone to shortness of breath. -
People who are pregnant may also be more vulnerable to shortness of breath and are advised to stay indoors when the AQI is greater than 150. -
For those who are active outdoors, it is recommended to wear a suitable mask when the air quality is unhealthy. A N95 Or KN95 works best.
Organizations that conduct outdoor activities or have an outdoor workforce should begin planning now for potential changes to Wednesday, June 28 events.
Provides more information on the air quality forecast for New York State here. To check the current air quality in your location, visit here: www.airnow.gov.
