Air Quality Health Alert: Smoke from Canadian Wildfires Set to Hit Upper Hudson Valley

Air Quality Index May Reach ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’

An Air Quality Health Advisory for Fine Particulate Matter has been issued for the Upper Hudson Valley and Adirondack regions, effective Friday, August 16, until midnight. This advisory is prompted by smoke from Canadian wildfires, which is expected to elevate Air Quality Index (AQI) levels to ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.’

Residents and visitors in these regions should be particularly cautious. The smoke is forecasted to increase levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can affect sensitive populations. Those with cardiovascular conditions (e.g., congestive heart failure, history of heart attacks), lung diseases (e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), children under 18, adults over 65, and pregnant individuals are advised to avoid outdoor exertion and monitor their health closely. For current AQI levels in your area, visit AirNow.gov.

Precautions and Monitoring

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the State Department of Health (DOH) are closely monitoring the wildfire smoke’s impact. The advisory covers a broad area: the Upper Hudson Valley, including Albany, Columbia, and surrounding counties; and the Adirondack region, including Clinton, Essex, and nearby counties. DEC will provide daily updates as conditions change.

New Yorkers are encouraged to use the DEC’s daily air quality forecasts to stay informed. Despite New York's stringent air quality regulations, certain days may still see elevated levels of pollutants like ozone and PM2.5.

Understanding AQI Levels

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is categorized as follows:

• 0-50 (Good): Air quality is satisfactory; little to no risk.
• 51-100 (Moderate): Air quality is acceptable; some risk for sensitive individuals.
• 101-150 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): Sensitive groups may experience health effects; the general public is not likely affected.
• 151-200 (Unhealthy): Everyone may start to experience health effects; sensitive groups may have more serious effects.
• 201-300 (Very Unhealthy): Health alert; everyone may experience more serious health effects.
• 301-500 (Hazardous): Emergency conditions; the entire population is more likely to be affected.

Staying Informed and Safe

Air pollution can affect public health and natural resources. To stay updated, sign up for Air Quality Alerts through DEC Delivers and visit DEC’s website for the latest forecasts. The Department of Health website also provides information on health risks and precautions related to air quality.