Air Quality Alert Issued for New York City Metro Area Due to Wildfires
Air quality in the New York City metro area continues to decline as smoke from wildfires in New Jersey and New York lingers in the air.
Health Advisory Issued for New Jersey
A health advisory is in effect in New Jersey for unhealthy air quality. Parts of Bergen, Passaic and Essex counties are under a Level Red air quality listed as “unhealthy.” Unhealthy levels mean the AQI is between 151 to 200 when “some members of the general public “may experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
Air Quality Alert Issued for New York City and Surrounding Areas
New York City and Westchester and Rockland counties in New York are under an air quality alert until 11 p.m. Saturday, according to the New York Department of Environmental Conservation.
Risks to Health
State officials warn the air quality index (AQI) is forecast to reach Level Orange, or an AQI between 101-150, which means unhealthy for sensitive groups. Sensitive groups could include older adults over 65 or children younger than 14, pregnant individuals, outdoor workers, and those with medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or respiratory issues such as asthma, according to the air quality alert. For healthy people, the risk of health impacts from outdoor activities remains low.
Wildfires in New Jersey
At least five wildfires are actively burning across New Jersey Saturday morning as gusty winds, dry brush and low humidity provide fueling conditions for fire activity.
The newest wildfire in New Jersey is the “Cannonball 3 Wildfire” burning in Pompton Lakes in Passaic County. The fire is 100 acres and zero-percent contained, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.
Forecast
The air quality is expected to remain through the current levels for much of the day but could improve overnight. Rain is in the forecast for Sunday with more expected on Thursday.
Conclusion
The air quality alert issued for the New York City metro area and surrounding areas is a reminder of the importance of taking precautions to protect our health and well-being during periods of poor air quality. It is essential to stay informed about air quality conditions and take necessary steps to minimize exposure to pollutants.
FAQs
Q: What is the current air quality index (AQI) in the New York City metro area?
A: The AQI is currently unhealthy for sensitive groups, with levels reaching 101-150.
Q: Who is at risk from poor air quality?
A: Sensitive groups, including older adults over 65 or children younger than 14, pregnant individuals, outdoor workers, and those with medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or respiratory issues such as asthma, are at risk from poor air quality.
Q: What can I do to minimize exposure to pollutants?
A: Stay informed about air quality conditions, avoid outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality, and take necessary steps to reduce exposure to pollutants, such as staying indoors with windows closed and using air purifiers.
Q: When is the air quality expected to improve?
A: The air quality is expected to improve overnight, with rain forecasted for Sunday and more expected on Thursday.
