Air now gov readings in parts of New York City moved from red to yellow today, and the air quality index was at 100. The change came as smoke from Canada continued to haze the region, even with warmer conditions building across New York City.
The shift leaves the area in moderate air, while an air quality index between 151 and 200 is considered unhealthy. Sensitive groups such as older adults and children should be especially cautious.
Mike Woods Forecast
Mike Woods, FOX 5’s forecaster, delivered the latest New York City-area forecast as temperatures were expected to climb into the upper 90s to near 100 in some spots. Central Park barely hit 90 degrees yesterday, and the forecast called for a clear but hazy start, warm temperatures, and sticky humidity.
The National Weather Service said the wildfire smoke is impacting air quality. A massive outbreak of Canadian wildfires is sending plumes of smoke down to the New York region this week, keeping the haze in place even as the index improved from red to yellow.
Office of Emergency Management
The Office of Emergency Management said it is monitoring the smoke plume as it heads toward the city from Canada. It also said temporary spikes in fine particulate matter are currently expected to stay below air quality health advisory triggers, but conditions can change.
An Air Quality Alert is issued when levels in the outdoor air may approach or exceed unhealthy standards, so the practical question for readers is whether the moderate reading holds through the heat or slips again as the smoke plume moves. For now, parts of New York City remain at 100, with sensitive groups advised to stay especially cautious.
