Montreal, June 8 – Unprecedented and record-breaking smog engulfed New York City today as smoke from Canadian wildfires covered the skyline, casting an eerie, yellowish glow over Manhattan’s iconic skyscrapers. The thick pollution caused flight delays, postponed sporting events, and led cities along the US East Coast to issue air quality alerts, urging residents to stay indoors. Meanwhile, thousands of Canadians were forced to evacuate their homes as the devastating wildfires continued to ravage the country.
Warnings Issued for Over 100 Million People:
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued pollution warnings for more than 100 million people across the northeastern United States, stretching as far west as Chicago and south to Atlanta, as the smoke traveled hundreds of miles from Canada. The scale of the wildfires has already displaced over 20,000 people and burned approximately 3.8 million hectares of land, making it Canada’s worst wildfire season in history, according to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
New Yorkers Experience Disturbing Effects:
The impact of the smog on New Yorkers has been severe, with residents reporting various health issues. Nicha Suaittiyanon, a 30-year-old tourist from Thailand, described the air’s smell as reminiscent of a barbecue and complained of watery and itchy eyes. Hugh Hill, a 43-year-old lawyer, experienced a stinging sensation in his throat, likening it to the smell of a wood-burning fire. Many residents, like Hill, opted to cover their faces while outdoors in an attempt to find relief from the harmful haze.
Worst Air Quality Index (AQI) Worldwide:
Air quality monitoring organizations such as IQAir.com and AirNow revealed that New York City currently has the highest air quality index (AQI) of any major city in the world. Known for its clear, blue skies, New York’s AQI reached hazardous levels, with readings of 413 at 5 pm (2100 GMT), just below the scale’s maximum of 500. NASA scientist Ryan Stauffer confirmed that New York broke its previous AQI record set 21 years ago. New York City’s health commissioner, Aswin Vasan, stated that the city was facing its worst air quality since the 1960s, while Governor Kathy Hochul declared it an “emergency crisis” likely to persist for several days.
Impact on Activities and Response:
The smog significantly affected various activities in New York City. All outdoor activities at public schools were suspended, and Mayor Eric Adams urged residents to limit their time outdoors to essential tasks only. Major League Baseball postponed games between the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox, as well as the Phillies’ home game against the Detroit Tigers, due to poor air quality. The WNBA and the National Women’s Soccer League also announced postponements. The opening night of a concert series in Brooklyn featuring Corinne Bailey Rae was canceled. Actress Jodie Comer left the stage of her one-woman Broadway show, “Prima Facie,” after just ten minutes, citing breathing difficulties.
Air Quality Crisis Extends to Washington:
Washington, D.C., also experienced the impact of the smog, with authorities warning that the air quality was “unhealthy for people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens.” All outdoor activities in public schools, including sports lessons, were canceled. White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized how the climate crisis is disrupting lives, and US President Joe Biden offered additional support to Canada, deploying over 600 US firefighters and personnel to combat the blazes.
Canada Continues Battle Against Wildfires:
In Canada, the wildfire situation remained dire, with over 11,000 residents already evacuated from Quebec province, the epicenter of the disaster. Local leader Francois Legault anticipated another 4,000 evacuations by day’s end. US President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau discussed the situation, with Biden offering further assistance to combat the devastating wildfires. Trudeau expressed gratitude for the support and reaffirmed his commitment to addressing climate change and its consequences.
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Mixed Reactions in New York City:
While some New Yorkers appeared unfazed by the acrid stench that hung over the city, many expressed concerns about the smog and its impact on their health. Pamela Roderick, a 78-year-old retiree, remarked, “It does not bother me. You know, New York often smells strange.” Nevertheless, the majority of residents and officials remain deeply concerned about the severity and consequences of the ongoing air quality crisis.
As efforts to combat the wildfires and mitigate their effects continue, affected residents are advised to stay informed, follow local authorities’ guidance, and prioritize their health and safety during this unprecedented situation.
