Wildfires in Canada caused several cities on the East Coast to be covered in dense orange smoke
Smoke appeared in New York on the afternoon of Wednesday, polluting the air and making the city look like a scene from Mars.
Canadian officials have asked several countries to help contain more than 400 fires that caused more than 20,000 people to flee their homes.
Canada also said that these were the worst wildfires in the country’s history, with more than 100 fires in Quebec.
For Americans, the biggest concern is air quality, with New York City becoming one of the cities with the worst air quality in history.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams and health officials advised New Yorkers to stay indoors and limit time outdoors, and suggested the use of mouth masks.
“As haze and smoke from the Canadian wildfires continue to spread, much of New York State is expected to experience unhealthy air quality today,” New York Governor Kathy Hochul tweeted. “Take steps to stay safe. Stay indoors if possible and limit strenuous activities.”
The governor also issued an advisory from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation in addition to a health and air quality advisory.
New Yorkers: smoke from Canadian wildfires will continue to impact air quality in much of the state today. Our team is monitoring conditions closely.
Please take precautions to limit exposure, especially if you’re part of a sensitive group. pic.twitter.com/ampeUYpw2f
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) June 7, 2023
The smoke affected airports as well, with the Federal Aviation Administration canceling flights at New York’s Laquardia Airport on Wednesdays, and delays were expected at nearby airports.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe expressed his concern in a tweet and said he was informed about the lung capacity and asthma that people could develop due to the smoke.
Ottawa Public Health advised citizens to check for health symptoms as air quality continued to degrade.
“If you experience symptoms such as chest tightness, wheezing or shortness of breath, seek medical attention,” the agency said.
With information from Fox News
