Canadian Wildfires Cause Unhealthy Air Quality in the United States
Canadian wildfires are causing unhealthy air quality again in the United States. Of course, not only that, the devastating fires that have swept through the forests in Canada, and North America have caused some areas around Canada to be exposed to fire smoke contamination.
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| The Statue of Liberty blanketed in smoke from Canada wildfires in New York (Image: Bloomberg) |
Wildfires are frequent in Canada's western provinces, but this year fires have mushroomed rapidly in the east of the country. This tragedy became the worst that happened at the beginning of the season.
Canadian wildfires cause unhealthy air quality in Chicago and other parts of the United States
Federal Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair said about 3.8 million hectares had burned. This nearly equates to 15 times the average fire in 10 years.
"Throughout the country until today, there are 414 forests burned, 239 of which are confirmed to be out of control," he said in a press conference Wednesday (7/6/2023).
The eastern Canadian province of Quebec was one of the worst affected. The fires forced the government to close roads, disrupt telecommunications, and high electricity.
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The aftermath of this incident also exposed areas around Canada to wildfire smoke. The BBC has shared a map of Canada's fire haze that is spreading to the United States.
Some areas are marked in dark red to purple, indicating smoke pollution levels of 250-500 micrograms per cubic meter. This is the most dangerous category.
On social media, there was also a viral video of the air and conditions in New York, United States which became cloudy orange-red.
So, what is the air quality of cities in the United States today?
IQAir compiled at least 10 cities in the United States that have the worst air quality today. The data was taken on Friday (9/6/2023) at 03.00 local time.
The city with the worst air quality went to Felton, Delaware with a score of 171 points. The main type of pollutant is PM2.5 with a concentration of 96 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³).
Second is Saint Mary, Maryland with a quality score of 168 points. Third, there is Fall River, Massachusetts with a value of 161 points.
Charlotte Hall and Millington in Maryland followed in fourth and fifth with the same score of 160 points.
Hopefully, the Canadian wildfires causing unhealthy air quality again in the United States can be resolved soon.