2023-06-07 21:10:52
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
- The New York City area has been shrouded in a cloud of thick smoke from wildfires in the Canadian provinces of Quebec and Nova Scotia in recent days.
- According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, wildfire smoke is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and plants, buildings, and other materials.
- The health effects of wildfire smoke are wide-ranging, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
NEW YORK — The New York City area has been shrouded in a cloud of thick smoke from wildfires in the Canadian provinces of Quebec and Nova Scotia in recent days.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation extended its health advisory on citywide air quality until midnight Wednesday, and people with underlying health conditions are advised to avoid outdoor activities as much as possible. may be possible. Long Island and the Hudson Valley are also under an air quality advisory.
With the air quality so bad, who is most at risk to their health when it comes to wildfire smoke?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Wildfire smoke is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and plants, buildings, and other materials.
The health effects of wildfire smoke are wide-ranging, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. They can range from eye and respiratory irritation to more serious conditions, including reduced lung function. Exposure can also exacerbate asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure, leading to premature death, according to EPA y go CDC.
The CDC notes that breathing smoke can affect people right away and can cause:
- tos
- difficulty breathing
- wheezing
- asthma attacks
- stinging eyes
- sore throat
- runny nose
- irritated sinuses
- Headaches
- fatigue
- chest pain
- racing heartbeat
Children, pregnant women, and the elderly are the most vulnerable to smoke exposure. Responders are also at higher risk, according to the CDC.
On Tuesday, the city made precautionary recommendations to protect New Yorkers, including limiting outdoor activities and staying indoors when possible. In addition, the city also recommends wearing a high-quality mask.
“We are currently taking precautions to protect the health of New Yorkers until we can get a better idea of future air quality reports. We advise all New Yorkers to limit outdoor activity to the greatest extent possible. Those with Pre-existing respiratory issues, such as heart or respiratory problems, as well as children and the elderly may be especially sensitive and should stay indoors at this time,” the city said.
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