The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and State Department of Health (DOH) has extended the Air Quality Health Advisory for all regions across New York State on Friday. The advisory, in effect from 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., forecasts ‘Unhealthy’ Air Quality Index (AQI) levels for Western and Central New York, and Eastern Lake Ontario regions. At these levels, everyone could experience health effects, and members of sensitive groups may face more severe effects.
The advisory further warns of ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ AQI levels in the rest of the state regions, implying that members of sensitive groups could face health repercussions, while the general public may remain unaffected. The primary pollutant of concern is Fine Particulate Matter (PM 2.5), originating from Canadian wildfires. PM 2.5, comprising tiny solid particles or liquid droplets smaller than 2.5 microns, is known to cause irritation to eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath, besides exacerbating conditions such as asthma and heart disease.
In response to the advisory, New Yorkers are urged to reduce pollution by utilizing mass transit, conserving fuel, minimizing the use of household appliances, and eliminating outdoor burning. The DEC and DOH issue such advisories when pollution levels are expected to exceed an AQI value of 100, indicating heightened health concerns. They also recommend avoiding strenuous activities in areas with high fine particle concentrations and minimizing indoor sources of PM 2.5.
Thursday: Expert talks impacts of wildfire smoke and poor air quality
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has extended its Air Quality Health Advisory through midnight today. The advisory, initially issued for Wednesday, June 28, warns that the air quality is expected to remain at least ‘Unhealthy for sensitive groups’, although the levels are not anticipated to reach the ‘Hazardous’ category…
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