News

Dec 27, 2023

Wildfire smoke in NY: How life in the Southern Tier has been impacted

Thick, hazy conditions descended on the Southern Tier Tuesday, sending families

Thick, hazy conditions descended on the Southern Tier Tuesday, sending families scrambling to alter outdoor plans, confused residents reporting fire concerns to emergency dispatchers and schools canceling outdoor recess and afternoon activities.

Air quality in the area has been at its lowest since 2002 this week as a result of Canadian wildfires and their lingering smoke, which has pushed into New York.

Conditions were expected to be at their worst Wednesday, and while the National Weather Service in Binghamton predicts the weekend will bring cleaner air, many events, businesses and programs have hit pause until the weather clears.

Got questions about the air quality in New York this week? Fill out our online form, and your submission will go straight to USA Today Network reporters who are covering this issue. You may be contacted for more information about your question.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has urged school districts across the state to suspend outdoor activities and the state Department of Health recommended all New Yorkers limit strenuous outdoor activity as the Air Quality Index (AQI) for many areas reached hazardous levels.

"People who are especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants, including the very young and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as heart disease or asthma, should avoid spending time outdoors, if possible," said Dr. James McDonald, the state's acting health commissioner.

"Those who experience symptoms or have symptoms that worsen should consider consulting their personal physician."

Latest weather outlook:The smoky haze in the Southern Tier is getting worse. Here's when we can expect it to end

What happened Tuesday:Southern Tier air 'unhealthy for all' as Quebec wildfires keep burning

How to keep safe:Yes, that campfire smell outside could put your health at risk. Here's what to do

Some cancellations that were announced Tuesday remained in effect Wednesday, while other events also went by the wayside due to poor air quality.

All beaches, boathouses and concessions at Broome County parks remained closed Wednesday due to poor air quality, Broome County Parks posted on its Facebook page.

Additionally, the Broome County Health Department postponed a rabies clinic scheduled for Wednesday night in Port Crane. Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville was closed Wednesday, as was the Ross Park Zoo in Binghamton.

Spring sports championship chases have also been impacted by the poor air quality. The New York State Public High School Athletic Association moved the boys lacrosse state tournament semifinals from Wednesday to Thursday. Games are scheduled to be played at Cortland State, Tompkins Cortland Community College and the University at Albany.

In Allegany County, Wellsville Central School canceled "JUMP Day" events, an annual community volunteer effort by the district's sixth through eighth grade students.

The Chemung County Department of Aging & Long Term Care announced the postponement of Wednesday's Senior Games BOCCE event.

"The health and safety of our community members are our top priorities, and it is essential that we take necessary precautions to ensure their well-being," said Beth Stranges, director of the county agency.

What questions do you have about how the wildfire smoke is affecting air quality in New York?

Are you worried about loved ones with breathing problems? Should you cancel outdoor events this week or weekend?

We’d love to hear your questions, and help answer them with our coverage. Fill out the form below and your submission will go straight to a USA Today Network reporter. We may reach out to you for more information about your question.

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