Overview

• New York City experienced the highest pollution level in the world on June 6
• Climate change is making wildfires more frequent and intense, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere where rising temperatures can turn already fire-prone forests into tinderboxes.
• Smoke from uncontrolled Canadian wildfires is causing foul air and smoke pollution across the eastern United States, extending as far south as Florida and as far west as Texas.
• Air quality remained unhealthy in many parts of New York State on Thursday morning but has improved to 15th on the list.
• Toxic smoke and ash from wildfires can weaken the immune system and cause damage to the body, including the lungs and heart, for anyone regardless of their health status.