Smoke from Canadian wildfires is prompting air quality concerns across several New York regions, including parts of the Finger Lakes and Central New York on Sunday.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Department of Health (DOH) announced an Air Quality Health Advisory for fine particulate matter, which will remain in effect from midnight through 11:59 p.m. The advisory includes Eastern Lake Ontario counties such as northern Cayuga, Monroe, Oswego, Jefferson, and Wayne.
According to the alert, residents in these areas may experience “visible smoke and hazy skies” and face “temporary spikes in smoke-related pollution.” The advisory comes as wildfire smoke drifts into the region from Canada, raising the potential for health risks.
The pollutant of concern—fine particulate matter, or PM 2.5—can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and worsen conditions like asthma and heart disease. Children, the elderly, and people with heart or breathing problems are especially vulnerable.
DEC and DOH issue advisories when pollution levels are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 100. The AQI is a tool used to communicate how clean or polluted the air is, with higher values indicating greater health concerns.
To reduce exposure, officials advise minimizing outdoor and indoor sources of fine particulate matter and avoiding strenuous activities when concentrations are high. Although going indoors may help, smoke from sources such as tobacco or cooking can keep indoor levels elevated.
More details about air quality and protective steps can be found on the DEC and DOH websites. Residents can also subscribe to air quality alerts through DEC Delivers or call the toll-free hotline at 1-800-535-1345.
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