New Yorkers are facing a frightening event in the city today as Canada's wildfires are dumping heavy smoke into the air, leading New York City Officials to release air quality warnings on June 7.
The city's Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol said, "We expect this to be a multiple-day event. This is not something that is normal." Officials are urging residents to avoid going outside whenever possible.
Several images have emerged from local news stations and New York residents showing the change in the city skyline from bright blue to deep orange over the course of June 7--and they are jarring images to behold.
While New York draws the most media attention, the smoke has spread over much of the Northeast, forcing cancelations and health warnings for millions.
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Photo credit: Luc Olinga
Luc Olinga
The latest show some of New York City's most famous structures clouded by heavy smoke, including gripping photos of the World Trade Center and the George Washington Bridge, which connects New York and New Jersey.
At the time of this writing, New York City surpassed Delhi, India for the worst air quality and pollution due to the wildfires in Canada. Flights in and out of LaGuardia Airport were put on hold for a time as a result.
Some on Twitter are pointing to climate change, which has been linked to the severity of wildfires primarily affecting the West Coast of the United States.
"The weather in New York right now should serve as a catalyst to talk about climate change," tweeted one. "For many, this is the first time experiencing this kind of smoke, whereas on the West Coast this is becoming all too common. None of this should be accepted as normal."
Residents of the West Coast have taken to Twitter to offer support and tips for New Yorkers coping with the air quality. Many have recommended the use of n-95 masks when going outside is absolutely necessary.
