Jul 15, 2026 — by
NCPR News
Hazy air over the Adirondack High Peaks on Monday, June 5, 2023. File photo courtesy of Charlotte Staats
The state Departments of Environmental Conservation and Health have issued a statewide Air Quality Health Advisory for Thursday, July 16 due to smoke from Canadian wildfires and high temperatures
An advisory for particulate matter was in effect Wednesday, July 15
The air quality is forecast to reach “unhealthy” levels in several regions of the state, including in Jefferson and southern Herkimer counties. The air quality in the rest of the North Country is forecast to be “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” According to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office, temporary spikes could cause “very unhealthy” levels
New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for real-time weather and emergency alerts by texting their county name to 333111, and to monitor the Air Quality Index at airnow.gov
The governor’s office issued the following recommendations for folks in impacted areas
- Sensitive groups should take particular caution.
- Where the air is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, New Yorkers with underlying health conditions should make outdoor activities shorter and less intense, and take breaks to reduce the risk of health symptoms.
- In areas where the air is considered unhealthy, people who are especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants should make outdoor activities shorter and less intense, and take breaks to reduce the risk of health symptoms. Avoid spending time outdoors, if possible. People more sensitive to smoke-related pollution include those with heart or breathing problems, older adults, children and teens, pregnant people, and those who exercise or work outdoors.
- If you must go outside when air quality levels are considered unhealthy, do not overexert yourself, and find a well-fitting mask to wear.
- Remember to take steps to cool off in air conditioning for at least a few hours because it’s also hot outside and indoor and outdoor temperatures can climb quickly.
- Staying indoors in a smoke-free environment can lower your exposure.
- Those who experience symptoms or have symptoms that worsen should consider consulting their medical provider.
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Recommendations for outdoor workers and their employers include:
- Allow for rest and relief.
- Stay hydrated and allow for water breaks.
- Provide respirators and adjust work plans based on air quality.
- Train workers on recognizing smoke-related health risks and proper safety protocols. Information about exposure to smoke from fires can be found on DOH’s website.
The state recommends that schools and child care providers suspend outdoor activities and field trips when air quality is unhealthy. Hikers and others recreating outdoors are advised to postpone strenuous activities “due to limited visibility and the potential for respiratory concerns from the smoke,” the governor’s office said
