Wildfire Smoke Halts MLB, MLS Games

Wildfire smoke has caused significant disruptions to sporting events. On Thursday, the start time for the MLB game between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies was moved up an hour, from 7:10 p.m. to 6:10 p.m. EDT, due to air quality concerns stemming from smoke originating from Canada and northern Minnesota.

This adjustment was made as heavy, pungent smoke created smoky and hazy skies across the Philadelphia region, reducing visibility and prompting public health warnings. Air quality levels reached unhealthy to hazardous stages, leading officials to advise residents to remain indoors or wear masks if venturing outside. A lingering high-pressure system is reportedly trapping the smoke close to the ground.

Similarly, an MLS game in Chicago between the Vancouver Whitecaps and the Fire at Soldier Field was postponed. This marks the second instance of wildfire smoke affecting a game in Philadelphia; a previous MLB game in June 2023 was also postponed for the same reason. The postponed MLS game is rescheduled for October 6.