Hazy skies, unhealthy air: Wildfire smoke blankets NYC region

NEW YORK (WABC) -- New Yorkers are being urged to take extra precautions Thursday as smoke from more than 100 wildfires burning in Canada triggers an air quality advisory across the state. Air quality conditions are expected to worsen throughout the day, prompting health officials to recommend limiting time outdoors.

The smoky conditions were visible early Thursday, with travelers flying out of LaGuardia Airport seeing orange, hazy skies and reduced visibility from the air. Residents across the city may notice haze, visible smoke and spikes in pollution levels throughout the day.

According to officials, the Air Quality Index was already at 162 Thursday morning and was projected to climb as high as 200 later in the day. An AQI level above 160 falls within the "unhealthy" category, meaning the air can pose health risks to everyone, especially sensitive groups.

Experts warn that fine particle pollution from wildfire smoke can cause shortness of breath, coughing, dizziness and fatigue. They recommend reducing or eliminating outdoor activities until conditions improve.

In response, New York City has expanded its heat emergency measures and is distributing KN95 masks at locations across the five boroughs.

Mayor Mamdani also took to social media to alert residents about the deteriorating air quality, urging children, people with compromised immune systems, and those with heart or lung conditions to remain indoors whenever possible.

While temperatures are expected to climb again Thursday, health officials say the greater concern may be the air itself. New Yorkers are encouraged to stay in cool, indoor spaces, avoid strenuous outdoor activity and take precautions to protect their health as smoky conditions persist.