NYC weather: Air quality alert for New York, NJ and Tri-State as Canadian wildfire smoke moves in
Last updated: Thursday, July 16, 2026 1:00AM GMT
NEW YORK (WABC) — All of New York State, including New York City, and parts of New Jersey are under an Air Quality Advisory due to the smoke from more than 100 wildfires burning in Canada.
The Tri-State will see visible smoke and hazy skies across the state and spikes in smoke-related pollution.
Fine particle pollution from wildfire smoke can cause shortness of breath, coughing, dizziness or fatigue and aggravate heart and lung diseases and other chronic health issues.
Experts suggest reducing or eliminating outdoor activities, wearing a N95 mask if you have to be outside and keeping your indoor air cleaner by closing windows and running an air purifier or air conditioner.
Check back for live updates.
Key Headlines
Here’s how the news is developing.
1 hour and 10 minutes ago
Air Quality Advisory for New York State to continue through Thursday
The New York State Departments of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Health (DOH) have issued a statewide Air Quality Health Advisory for Thursday.
An Air Quality Health Advisory for particulate matter was already in effect statewide on Wednesday as a result of smoke from Canadian wildfires and high temperatures creating unhealthy air conditions.
“With smoke from Canadian wildfires again impacting air quality throughout our state, we’re urging New Yorkers to be air quality aware to stay safe this week,” Governor Hochul said.”We continue to coordinate with local counties to monitor conditions and distribute masks to help protect vulnerable populations. I encourage all New Yorkers to stay informed about the latest updates and take the necessary precautions to protect yourselves, your neighbors, and your loved ones.”
Jul 15, 2026, 9:05 PM GMT
Photos show haze from the wildfires blanketing the Manhattan skyline
Jul 15, 2026, 7:25 PM GMT
Westchester County officials warn of unhealthy air quality
The Westchester County Health Department is urging residents to take extra precautions as a combination of extreme heat, high humidity and smoke from Canadian wildfires creates unhealthy air quality for sensitive groups.
Governor Kathy Hochul warned New Yorkers that smoke from ongoing wildfires in Canada, combined with high temperatures, will lead to poor air quality across much of the state.
The smoke is expected to move across New York throughout the day and may be visible in the sky.
“Please take this heat seriously. When it is this hot and humid, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and take frequent breaks from outdoor work if it cannot be rescheduled,” said Westchester County health commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler. “Take time to cool off and spend time in air-conditioned places. Infants, those with asthma, pregnant women, older adults and those with heart disease or other respiratory or heart conditions should spend less time outdoors until the air quality improves and the temperature cools. Be mindful of possible health effects such as coughing or shortness of breath.”
Jul 15, 2026, 7:25 PM GMT
PHOTOS: A look at conditions through Friday
Maps show how the smoke will impact air quality through Friday.
