TOMPKINS COUNTY, N.Y.—The local air quality is once again worsening thanks to Canadian wildfires continuing to burn. Air quality in Ithaca as of Wednesday morning is listed as “moderate,” though it is anticipated to sink to “unhealthy” at points during the day.
The middle of the country is currently experiencing some of the same conditions Ithaca did earlier this month when smoke caused air quality to become hazardous. It is not predicted to worsen to that extent again during this current period, but those who are more susceptible to air quality issues should avoid lengthy outdoor activities.
“People with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teens: Reduce your exposure by avoiding strenuous outdoor activities or keeping outdoor activities short. Consider moving physical activities indoors,” states the warning on the AirQuality website. “Everyone else: Reduce your exposure by choosing less strenuous activities or shortening the amount of time you are active outdoors.”
Tompkins County Whole Health advised local residents they can wear masks to protect from some of the particulate threats while air quality is poor. The DEC’s Air Quality Advisory is currently set to end at midnight Thursday, June 29.
“It is out of an abundance of caution that we remind the community of the steps to take when the air quality is poor,” Whole Health Commissioner Frank Kruppa stated. “Wear a high-quality mask when outdoors, and limit time spent outdoors, especially if you are very young, are pregnant, are an older adult, or have pre-existing respiratory problems.”