New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that smoke from Canadian wildfires combined with high temperatures has prompted a statewide Air Quality Health Advisory for particulate matter. The advisory issued July 15 remains in effect through 11:59 p.m. and state agencies say a separate Air Quality Health Advisory from the DEC and DOH covers July 16.
Western New York forecast and health guidance
State forecasts list Western New York among the regions expected to reach ‘Unhealthy’ air quality levels, meaning everyone may begin to experience health effects and members of sensitive groups could experience more serious issues. The advisory also warns temporary spikes could push levels to ‘Very Unhealthy.’
State recommendations include avoiding time outdoors if possible, reducing the length and intensity of outdoor activity for people in sensitive groups, staying in a smoke-free environment when feasible, and consulting a medical provider if symptoms develop or worsen. The state specifically identifies vulnerable groups as people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teens, pregnant people, and outdoor workers.
State actions and resources
At the Governor’s direction, more than 100,000 N95-style masks are being made available to counties. The release notes the New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services’ Office of Emergency Management is coordinating with local counterparts to facilitate requests for assistance. The release also says the MTA will distribute masks at Penn Station and Grand Central in New York City.
The state advised New Yorkers to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) at AirNow.gov and said AQI values are forecast to exceed 100 and could go above 150 — thresholds that indicate air may be ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ or ‘Unhealthy’ for everyone, respectively.
Recommendations for workplaces, schools and outdoor workers
The release urges employers with outdoor workers to allow rest and relief periods, provide respirators when appropriate, stay hydrated, and adjust work plans based on air quality. For schools, summer camps and child care providers the state recommends suspending outdoor activities and field trips when air quality is unhealthy and watching participants for symptoms.
State DEC and State Parks are encouraging hikers and others recreating outdoors to postpone strenuous activities due to limited visibility and respiratory risks. The Office of Employee Relations has issued guidance to state agency HR professionals about mitigating outdoor air quality impacts for employees.
What to watch
Officials said DEC and DOH will continue to monitor conditions and update advisories as needed. The release reiterates AQI health categories and associated health guidance; residents are urged to check local AQI readings and follow the precautions above while smoke impacts continue.
