According to the National Weather Service, New York City has the worst air quality among significant cities worldwide due to the Canadian fires.
The air quality index (AQI) reached 173 US AQI at 11:30 AM IST, considered unhealthy for everyone, and significantly exceeded the World Health Organization's recommended exposure level.
The cities ranking above New Delhi regarding the air quality index (AQI) include Kuwait City, Detroit, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Baghdad, and Dhaka. Here is a complete list of city rankings based on US AQI, as per IQAir's air quality and pollution data.
New York Mayor Eric Adam¡¯s office issued an advisory, stating:?
"If you¡¯re a New Yorker with heart or breathing issues, be careful when you¡¯re outdoors. Smoke from wildfires in Canada impacts our city¡¯s air quality, so an Air Quality Health Advisory has been issued. Try to limit outdoor activities today to the absolute necessities."
The Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions have been experiencing intermittent smoke and poor air quality due to ongoing fires in Canada.
The prolonged exposure to polluted air is raising concerns about potential health effects. Videos showing dense smoke-filled skies in New York State have circulated on social media, causing alarm among citizens.
In Canada, wildfires have devastated western Quebec and northern Ontario, leading to hazardous air quality levels in Ottawa, the capital city. According to Environment Canada, the severity of the situation has resulted in air quality above the risk scale's upper limit.
Authorities have warned that the hazardous conditions caused by forest fires may persist most of the week, posing risks to human health. In light of this, the general public has been advised to minimize or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities to prioritize their well-being.?
Particularly vulnerable individuals, including seniors, young children, and pregnant individuals, have been strongly urged to avoid engaging in such activities due to the heightened risk of severe health issues caused by pollution.
If you reside in an area with high levels of air pollution, authorities recommend using facemasks when venturing outdoors. Additionally, using an air purifier indoors and limiting outside time for activities like gardening or exercise is advisable. It is also recommended to keep windows and doors closed to minimize exposure to polluted air.
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