As of this writing (12:30 p.m.), Airnow.gov records a “very unhealthy” air quality for the greater Buffalo area. Air quality alerts from NYS DEC are expected to continue at least through this evening.
Given the hazardous air quality conditions created by Canadian wildfire smoke, the Erie County Department of Health is strongly recommending that coordinated outdoor activities, such as children’s sports events or adult sports leagues, be postponed for a later date, once air quality improves.
Employers with workers who spend time outside should consider postponing outdoor work, shifting to indoor work, limiting the time spent outdoors, or providing N95 masks. Workers with heart or lung disease and older adults should also avoid physical activities outdoors until air quality conditions improve.
Erie County residents should stay up-to-date with current air conditions from sources like Airnow.gov, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the National Weather Service – Buffalo.
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Airnow.gov – visual maps of current air quality/particulate counts. Updated regularly.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation – Today’s Air Quality Index (AQI) Forecast - https://www.dec.ny.gov/cfmx/extapps/aqi/aqi_forecast.cfm
New York State – Canadian wildfires impacting state’s air quality: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-updates-new-yorkers-canadian-wildfires-impacting-states-air-quality
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Particulate Pollution - https://www.cdc.gov/air/particulate_matter.html
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