Canadian wildfire smoke triggers air quality alerts across U.S. and Canada
Smoke from wildfires burning in Canada is creating hazardous air quality across parts of Canada and the United States.
(CNN)- Smoke from wildfires burning in Canada is creating hazardous air quality across parts of Canada and the United States, prompting health officials to warn residents to limit outdoor activity.
In Ontario, thick smoke combined with extreme heat has triggered air quality alerts as residents report burning eyes, headaches and difficulty breathing. The smoke has blanketed Toronto, reducing visibility and casting a haze over the city.
Health officials say the smoke poses the greatest risk to children, older adults and people with respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD.
The smoke has also spread into the United States, affecting communities across the Great Lakes and the Northeast. In central New York, residents reported hazy skies as smoke moved into the region.
Massachusetts also issued an air quality alert as wildfire smoke clouded skies over Boston.
Officials say some of the smoke affecting the Northeast is also coming from wildfires burning in Minnesota, where Gov. Tim Walz has extended emergency resources to support first responders battling the fires.
Health experts recommend limiting time outdoors when air quality is poor and wearing a well-fitting mask if prolonged outdoor exposure is unavoidable.
