Navigating the Health Effects of Wildfire Smoke in Urban Areas

Air quality concerns continue in New York City due to smoky haze from the Canadian wildfires, with officials urging residents to stay inside and wear facemasks if they must go out. The city's air quality index reached the worst in the world on Wednesday, prompting city leaders to call it an environmental and health crisis. Vulnerable populations, including seniors and young children, are advised to limit time outdoors. City-sponsored events have been canceled, and the city's four zoos, New York Aquarium, and public beaches remain closed. Governor Kathy Hochul's office is distributing 1 million facemasks across the state, including 400,000 in New York City.