New England is bracing for hazy weather on Saturday, July 26, as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts across the region, prompting health warnings.
The National Weather Service said air quality alerts were issued in Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Maine for most of Saturday due to unhealthy air conditions.
These conditions can be seen via the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map. AirNow tracks air quality through a partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Park Service, NASA, Centers for Disease Control, state and local air quality agencies, according to its website.
The map show the Air Quality Index, measuring particle pollution. Reports in Boston, Weymouth and Brockton showed unhealthy numbers as of 11:15 a.m., recommending everyone reduce outdoor activity and to do inside if you have symptoms.
The Air Quality Alert in Massachusetts is in effect until 11 p.m. on Saturday, according to the state’s Department of Environmental Protection.
Most reports from throughout the rest of the state showed “unhealthy for sensitive group” readings, recommending only those with health problems to take precautions.
Further north, the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources issued an air quality alert from the wildfire smoke, stating that the air quality index for Saturday is expected to approach or exceed the code orange, or unhealthy for sensitive groups category until 11 p.m.
“Sensitive groups may experience adverse respiratory symptoms and may also experience aggravation of heart or lung disease,” the National Weather Service wrote. “Sensitive groups include: people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teenagers.”
Similarly, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Air Quality and New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services also issued an alert for particle pollution across the state until 11 p.m. on Saturday.
“A plume of smoke moved into Maine overnight bringing much higher particle pollution values than previously expected,” the National Weather Service wrote. “As the day progresses, the plume of smoke is expected to keep moving and values should drop down but air quality will continue to be a health concern for much of the day for these regions.”
Although sensitive groups can be active outside, public health officials advise they take more breaks and do less intense activities, while watching for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.
People with asthma should follow their action plans and keep quick relief medicine handy. Those with heart disease should contact a healthcare provider if they have any symptoms like palpitations, shortness of breath or unusual fatigue, as it could indicate a serious problem.
Maine created a toll free air quality hotline so residents can stay informed on the matter. The number is 1-800-223-1196.
In Rhode Island, the state’s department of environmental management issued an air quality action day for fine particulates until midnight. This means that fine particulate concentrations within the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards.
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