Rockland County ranked among New York’s 10 worst locations for air quality early Friday morning as smoke from hundreds of Canadian wildfires continued to blanket much of the state.
Smoke from more than 830 wildfires burning in Ontario has drifted across the Northeast, creating hazy skies, reducing visibility and leaving the smell of smoke in the air across downstate New York.
Air quality remained unhealthy Friday, July 17, with Air Quality Index (AQI) values above 150 in many parts of the state. The National Weather Service expects conditions to gradually improve over the weekend, with much of the smoke clearing by Sunday.
Which New York communities have the worst air quality right now?
The following locations had the highest AQI readings in New York early on Friday morning, according to IQAir.
(Note: AQI readings change throughout the day as smoke shifts.)
Why is New York’s air quality so poor?
Smoke from more than 830 active wildfires in Ontario continues to drift into New York and the Northeast.
The smoke contains PM2.5, microscopic particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Elevated levels can reduce visibility, create hazy skies and increase the risk of breathing problems, especially for people with asthma, heart disease and other respiratory conditions.
On Friday, AirNow.gov reported AQI readings of 153 in Rockland and Westchester counties and 176 in New York City — both considered unhealthy.
What is PM2.5?
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter measuring 2.5 microns or smaller — about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair.
Because the particles are so small, they can travel deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, short-term exposure can trigger asthma attacks, breathing problems and cardiovascular issues, while long-term exposure has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and reduced life expectancy.
What do AQI numbers mean?
Contributing: Victoria Freile, New York Connect
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Rockland was among NY’s worst for air quality from wildfire smoke
Reporting by Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team | USA TODAY Network
