The state Department of Environmental Conservation has extended its Air Quality Health Advisory through Thursday as the region deals with a return of smoke from the Canadian Wildfires. The advisory covers all of Central and Western New York as well as areas east of Lake Ontario.
Governor Kathy Hochul also announced the first-time use of emergency cell phone alerts, which will be used to warn New Yorkers if the air quality index exceeds the 200 threshold for ‘Very Unhealthy’ air and is sustained for longer than an hour. The alerts will be transmitted via the Wireless Emergency Alert system, managed by the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.
“With smoke from the Canadian wildfires once again impacting air quality throughout our state this week, we’re urging New Yorkers to remain vigilant,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re activating emergency cell phone alerts to ensure New Yorkers have the latest information and are continuing to coordinate with local counties to monitor conditions and distribute masks. I encourage all New Yorkers to stay informed about the latest updates and take the necessary precautions to protect yourselves and your loved ones.”
