07 Jun 2023 | 11:56 PM UTC
US: Warnings for poor air quality due to smoke from Canadian wildfires in effect across much of eastern parts of the country as of late June 7 /update 1
Warnings for poor air quality in effect across the eastern US as of late June 7. Business, transport disruptions possible.
Event
Authorities throughout much of the eastern US and some parts of the Mid-West have issued warnings and advisories concerning poor air quality due to smoke from wildfires occurring in Canada as of late June 7. Air quality is worst in parts of eastern Pennsylvania, including Scranton and Allentown, and far southwestern Connecticut, including Bridgeport, where hazardous air quality has been detected; authorities advise against all outdoor physical activity. Very unhealthy air quality levels are in place across central and eastern Pennsylvania, northern and central New Jersey, southwestern Connecticut, and southern and eastern New York. Authorities recommend limiting outdoor activity throughout the remainder of Pennsylvania, as well as in the states of Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. Similar advisories have also been issued for portions of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. Additional advisories will likely be issued and modified as meteorological conditions change; unhealthy air quality conditions could persist for several days.
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 is also likely to cause flight disruptions in some areas; as of the evening of June 7, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Philadelphia Airport (PHL) are experiencing delays due to low visibility from the smoke. Additional disruptions are possible at other airports in affected regions.
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.
