Canadian Wildfire Smoke Races Toward New York City’s 20 Million People
Seventy-nine wildfires are burning out of control in northern Manitoba and Ontario. They are having a similar effect to those that are burning in Canada’s northeast in June 2023. Their smoke is starting to cover the area around New York City.
The National Weather Service has issued a warning for the greater New York City area, which has a population of 20 million. “An Air Quality Action Day means that Ground Level Ozone within the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards. Sensitive individuals, including the very young, the elderly, and persons with respiratory diseases such as asthma, should avoid strenuous activities during the afternoon and early evening hours.”
Similar To 2023 Fires
As was the case in 2023, the problem is not only severe but is likely to be repeated every summer. Northern Canada is primarily a vast forest, and the presence of humans can exacerbate the spread of fires. The fires can be triggered by lightning as well. Due to the remoteness of the areas, firefighting operations are not readily available.
Because these fires affect most of the geographic area between the Canadian border and the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Montana, the smoke has been visible as far south as southern Indiana and as far east as New York City. The problem is not trivial, mainly if it occurs annually. People with preexisting conditions across an area of at least one hundred million people become part of the problem. Some businesses have to alter operations. Emergency room visits rise. The health of some Americans is permanently compromised.
The Canadian wildfires are here to stay, as are the effects they have on the US.
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