Wildfire smoke sparks hazardous air quality across US
A study published this year estimated such exposure contributes to about 24,100 deaths annually in the contiguous United States.
Thick wildfire smoke blanketed large parts of the United States yesterday (16 July), stretching from the Great Lakes to the East Coast, prompting health warnings as air quality deteriorated to unhealthy and hazardous levels.
The smoke, mainly from wildfires in Canada and northern Minnesota, reduced visibility and darkened skies across several states.
Officials urged residents to stay indoors or wear protective masks, warning that the polluted air could affect everyone regardless of health status. Air quality in Detroit ranked among the worst globally for major cities.
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Authorities issued hazardous air quality alerts across Michigan, much of Minnesota, and parts of Illinois, while New York City moved outdoor activities indoors, opened cooling centers, and distributed thousands of face masks. Philadelphia also advised residents to avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Health experts warned that microscopic particles in wildfire smoke can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of respiratory, cardiovascular, and other long-term illnesses
A study published this year estimated such exposure contributes to about 24,100 deaths annually in the contiguous United States.
Meanwhile, wildfires continued spreading in Minnesota despite firefighting efforts.
Officials said smoke hampered helicopter operations, while Canada's Royal Air Force evacuated 11 Minnesota teenagers and four staff members from an Ontario provincial park threatened by the fires. Authorities warned smoky conditions could persist for weeks or even months.
