NWS Issues 1-Day Air Quality Alert for Manhattan and Long Island as Canadian Smoke Spreads
Updated
Updated · Newsday · Jul 16
NWS Issues 1-Day Air Quality Alert for Manhattan and Long Island as Canadian Smoke Spreads
3 articles · Updated · Newsday · Jul 16
Summary
Yellow skies and an acrid smell spread across Manhattan and Long Island on Thursday, prompting the National Weather Service to issue an air quality alert through the end of the day.
Canadian wildfire smoke carries fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide and other pollutants that can lodge in the lungs and strain the heart, according to EPA guidance and local health experts.
Dr. Jacqueline Moline said short-term exposure can trigger sinus irritation, headaches and scratchy throat, while people with asthma or other breathing problems may need emergency treatment and oxygen.
A 2022 study led by Stephanie Cleland linked heavier smoke exposure to reduced attention within days, adding to evidence that repeated summer smoke events may carry longer-term cognitive risks.
Experts urged residents to limit outdoor exercise, check air-quality readings before going out, and use clean air indoors with purifiers and maintained air-conditioning filters.