Smoke from raging wildfires in Canada has significantly elevated pollution levels across a vast area of the United States, including New York City.
The National Weather Service issued an air-quality alert as the smoke drifts southward, impacting residents.
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City Urges Residents to Stay Indoors
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents to stay indoors and limit outdoor activities, especially strenuous ones.
"Every New Yorker should take precautions," Mamdani said.
The city has made free KN95 masks available at various locations to help mitigate health risks.
The city's emergency management office recommended that residents avoid outdoor exposure for more than an hour.
"Listen to your body.
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If you have watery eyes, a scratchy throat, or difficulty breathing, reduce physical activity and go indoors," the office advised.
Many individuals have reported irritation from the polluted air.
John, a lifelong resident of Queens, expressed concern for his health while working security in Times Square, where staff were encouraged to take breaks indoors.
"You can taste the burnt paper in the air," he remarked, reflecting the discomfort felt by many.
High temperatures in the city, exceeding 90F (32.2C), have trapped the smoky air, further aggravating the situation.
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In nearby Detroit, air quality has been reported as the worst in the world due to proximity to the burning forests.
