Wildfire Smoke from Canada and Minnesota Triggers Air Quality Alerts Across New England
A plume of smoke from wildfires in Ontario and northern Minnesota has driven hazardous air quality alerts across New England, with the Boston area reporting an AQI of about 130.
A broad plume of smoke from wildfires in Ontario, Canada, and northern Minnesota has been carried eastward by a jet-stream pattern, reaching New England and prompting air-quality alerts for a large portion of the northeastern United States. The alerts cover areas from New York and Philadelphia down to Washington, D.C., and extend westward to the Great Lakes region. Health officials advise people with asthma, COPD or other respiratory conditions to limit outdoor exposure.
In Boston, the Air Quality Index rose to roughly 130 on Wednesday morning, placing conditions in the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category. Similar haze was reported in New Hampshire, where the sun was barely visible, and in northern Wisconsin, where surface smoke obscured harbor boats.
Meteorologists expect the densest smoke to remain over central and southern New England through Wednesday night, thinning slightly overnight. A second surge of smoke is forecast for Thursday afternoon, potentially bringing another period of reduced visibility and a noticeable smoky odor at ground level.
"The smoke is a significant source of toxic exposure in the United States," a public health spokesperson said.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local air-quality reports and take precautions when venturing outdoors.