Hochul Issues Air Quality Alert for Upstate New York Amid Canadian Wildfire Smoke

Western New York is experiencing deteriorating air conditions as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts into the region, prompting a public health advisory from Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday morning.

“This morning, visible smoke from Canadian wildfires is drifting into New York, causing a spike in fine particles and leading to unhealthy air quality in parts of Western New York,” Hochul said in a statement.

Individuals who fall within sensitive groups - such as children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with heart or respiratory illnesses - are particularly at risk from the increased levels of fine particulate matter in the air.

“I urge New Yorkers in the affected areas to take precautions. Limit time outdoors, stay inside when possible and avoid strenuous activities," Hochul advised.

As of 10am, the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Western New York stood at 100, which marks the threshold for air quality deemed unhealthy for sensitive populations.

Residents are encouraged to monitor conditions using the state’s AQI website at https://extapps.dec.ny.gov/cfmx/extapps/aqi/aqi\_forecast.cfm

Hochul Issues Air Quality Alert for Upstate New York Amid Canadian Wildfire Smoke