Northeastern US Battles Hazardous Smoke from Canadian Blazes

A dangerous air quality situation is unfolding in the Northeastern United States as smoke from the ongoing Canadian wildfires continues to choke the region. Several states, including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, parts of Eastern New York, and Southern Maine, are currently under air quality alerts that will remain in effect through Saturday.

The affected areas, including major cities like Boston, Providence, and Burlington, are experiencing 'unhealthy' levels of air quality, with some regions reaching as high as 155 on the air quality index. This means that the general public may start experiencing health effects, and sensitive groups like pregnant women and young children are at a higher risk of serious reactions.

The smoke arrived in the region behind a cold front on Friday, and northerly winds and high pressure have trapped the pollutants, leading to the widespread air quality issues. However, the situation is expected to improve by Sunday as rain from the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley moves into the area, pushing the haze out towards the ocean.

Unfortunately, the respite may be short-lived, as the smoke could potentially return early next week. The ongoing Canadian wildfires, with over 550 blazes currently burning and scorching 15 million acres, continue to be the source of the hazardous air quality affecting the Northeastern US.