09 Jun 2023 | 08:08 AM UTC
US: Warnings for poor air quality due to smoke from Canadian wildfires continue across eastern parts of the country as of early June 9 /update 2
Warnings for poor air quality continue across the eastern US as of early June 9. Business, transport disruptions possible.
Event
Authorities throughout much of the eastern US and some parts of the Mid-West continue to issue warnings and advisories concerning poor air quality due to smoke from wildfires occurring in Canada as of early June 9. New York and Washington D.C. recorded their worst particle pollution levels on record June 7-8, and authorities in much of the region have advised people to avoid outdoor activities due to the hazardous levels of air pollution. Air quality is forecast to be worst in parts of northern Virginia and eastern and northeastern Delaware on June 9, where very unhealthy air quality levels are expected. Unhealthy air quality levels are expected across much of the rest of the affected area. The hazardous pollution levels are expected to persist over the weekend before a cold front arrives in the region early next week, which will likely lead to an improvement in the situation. Additional advisories will likely be issued and modified as meteorological conditions change.
In all areas under air quality advisories, vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, people suffering from asthma or other lung diseases, and people with heart disease, are at particular risk of negative health consequences from the smoke.
The low air quality has led to flight disruptions at airports across the region June 7-8 due to poor visibility caused by the wildfire smoke. Hundreds of flights have been canceled, and thousands delayed at affected airports. The Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground stop for departures at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) early June 8. Inbound flights were also paused at both Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and ground delays were ordered at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) on June 8. All flights were grounded at LaGuardia Airport (LGA) on June 7, and delays have been reported at several other airports in the region over recent days. Further disruptions are likely in the coming days until the air quality situation improves. Travelers have been urged to check the status of their flights due to possible delays.
While most business activities continue uninterrupted, some business disruptions are likely; many outdoor events and activities throughout the northeastern US will probably be postponed or canceled.
Advice
Heed the recommendations of local authorities if operating in affected areas. Individuals - especially children, the elderly, and persons with pulmonary or cardio-vascular conditions - should limit their time outdoors until local air quality advisories are lifted. Reconfirm business appointments. Plan accordingly for increased absenteeism among employees who have certain health conditions or are the parents or guardians of school-aged children. Reconfirm flights before leaving for the airport; do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed.
