Central NY Added to Air Quality Alert as Canadian Wildfire Smoke Triggers Statewide Health Concerns

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Central NY Added to Air Quality Alert as Canadian Wildfire Smoke Triggers Statewide Health Concerns

Syracuse, NY — An air quality advisory has been expanded to include Central New York as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to drift into the region, creating hazardous atmospheric conditions and health risks for vulnerable populations.

Air Quality Alert Now Covers Much of New York State

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) issued an updated advisory for Sunday, warning residents about the increasing levels of fine particulate matter in the air due to wildfire smoke.

Initially limited to Western New York, Eastern Lake Ontario, and the Adirondacks, the alert now includes multiple Central New York counties as well.

According to a DEC news release, the hazy conditions are the result of microscopic particles from wildfire smoke that measure 2.5 microns or smaller, small enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream, potentially causing serious health effects.

Counties Under the Advisory

The advisory impacts several counties across the state, including:

  • Central New York: Allegany, Broome, southern Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, southern Herkimer, Livingston, Madison, Onondaga, Oneida, Ontario, Otsego, Tioga, Tompkins, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, and Yates
  • Western New York: Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming
  • Eastern Lake Ontario: Northern Cayuga, Jefferson, Monroe, Oswego, and Wayne
  • Adirondacks: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, northern Herkimer, Lewis, St. Lawrence, and Warren

Health Risks and Recommendations

“Breathing in these particles can lead to short-term health effects such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, or shortness of breath,” the DEC noted.

The advisory is particularly important for children, older adults, and those with asthma, heart disease, or respiratory conditions, who are more vulnerable to fine particle exposure.

Read Also: Canadian Wildfire Smoke Pushes Chicago and Minneapolis to Worst Air Quality Rankings Worldwide

Public Health Guidelines Issued

Health officials are urging residents in impacted areas to limit outdoor activity, especially strenuous exercise. Those with chronic health conditions should stay indoors and consider using air purifiers if available.

“People in sensitive groups should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors and monitor air quality levels closely throughout the day,” the advisory stated.

When Will Conditions Improve?

The advisory is in effect all day Sunday, and officials say that air quality conditions could fluctuate depending on wind direction and fire activity in Canada. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the DEC and local health departments for real-time alerts.

How is the air quality in your area today? Share your experience and tips for staying safe in the comment of newyorkdailygazette.com.

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Loretta James

Loretta James is a dedicated journalist with over three years of experience covering education, community affairs, and politics across the United States. With a passion for amplifying underrepresented voices and a keen eye for policy impacts, Loretta brings insightful reporting that bridges local stories with national relevance. Her work highlights the intersection of classroom challenges, civic engagement, and legislative developments, offering readers clear, human-centered narratives.

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