New York City continues to be smothered under a thick, orange haze of toxic smog, with air pollution levels reaching hazardous records not seen since the 1960s. The smoke, drifting from wildfires in Quebec and Nova Scotia, has turned the Manhattan skyline into an 'apocalyptic' scene, prompting authorities to extend a 'Code Red' air quality alert for a third day.
New York Health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan urged residents to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and wear high-quality masks if they must go outside. 'Air quality conditions in NYC are getting worse,' he warned, advising vulnerable groups—including those with respiratory or heart conditions, older adults, and young children—to avoid outdoor activities entirely. He added that anyone experiencing breathing problems should call 911.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the distribution of approximately one million N95 masks at key locations, including Grand Central Terminal, Penn Station, and several parks. The New York Fire Department is also providing masks, with a limit of two per person. The air quality index (AQI) in New York City reached a 'hazardous' level of 484, far above the typical reading of around 100, according to Mayor Eric Adams.
The smoke has caused a dramatic drop in visibility, with a video from the National Weather Service showing the skyline clear at 11 a.m. but obscured by a thick orange blur by 2 p.m. The weather system responsible is expected to linger for several days, affecting millions across the US and Canada. More than 400 wildfires in Canada have displaced 20,000 people.
