"We can see it, we can smell it, and we felt it. It was alarming and concerning," Adams said."It really sent shockwaves throughout the entire city and this region." "It wasn't until I went outdoors and basically said 'What the hell is this?' You know? It was clear that there was something different that was happening in the city," Adams said.
Adams urged older adults and people with heart or breathing conditions to wear high quality masks outdoors if they go outdoors. Schools will be open today.All NYC Public Schools will be canceling all outdoor activities today."Air quality conditions are anticipated to temporarily improve later tonight through tomorrow morning, but they are expected to deteriorate further tomorrow afternoon and evening," Adams said.
Iscol said that fire season in Canada, which has 9% of the world's forests, has started early this year. Authorities said thus far there has been no noticeable uptick in emergency room visits in New York City as a result of the poor air quality. , stemming from more than 400 wildfires currently burning in Canada and the air that's making its way toward us.