Funds raised will go to help those unable to financially overcome challenges related to this dangerous air quality. Many unable to move temporarily, protect themselves or seek proper medical attention.
Hazardous air quality levels continued to overwhelm parts of the eastern U.S. today as a fresh wave of smoke from Canadian wildfires billowed across the border. Major metro areas are still experiencing dangerous air quality levels for all age groups, including New York City, Boston, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., the National Weather Service said. Officials have warned residents whose cities were shrouded in haze to stay indoors and wear masks outdoors.
A thick haze taking over the skies of much of the Northeast U.S. has prompted numerous cities to urge people to stay indoors – and for good reason. The smoke trailing in from wildfires in Canada has spiked air pollution to levels that could cause health issues for those exposed, particularly people in vulnerable groups.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, wildfire smoke is a “complex mixture” of pollutants can cause anywhere from minor health effects to those that are more serious. That’s because the particulate matter within the smoke irritates the respiratory system, impacting the body’s ability to function even among those who are healthy, and even short term exposure of just a few days can have serious impacts.
“Sensitive groups,” including children, the elderly, pregnant people and those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular issues, are most vulnerable to these impacts.
“The particulate matter that’s in this haze is significant because it does irritate the bronchial, the small tubes that go down into your lungs and connect to the alveoli, which are the sacs that allow you to breathe,” Dr. Bob Lahita, a rheumatologist, told CBS News, saying that anyone who belongs to the sensitive groups should avoid going outside. According to the National Weather Service, poor air quality can be hazardous.”
