Large wildfires continue to burn across Ontario and other parts of Canada. As these fires produce enormous amounts of smoke, the upper-level winds are carrying the smoke plume directly over the Mid-Atlantic. While some of the smoke remains several thousand feet above the ground, changing winds and daytime mixing allow portions of that smoke to reach the surface.
That means many communities across southeastern Pennsylvania, South Jersey, northern Delaware, and surrounding areas may notice:
- The smell of a campfire
- Reduced air quality
- Slightly irritated eyes or throat
- Hazy conditions despite mostly sunny weather
The smoke is expected to become more noticeable at times through tonight and into Thursday as additional smoke moves into the region.
Is It Dangerous?
For most healthy people, the impacts will be minimal. However, smoke contains fine particles that can irritate the lungs.
Those who should take extra precautions include:
People with asthma or COPD
Young children
Older adults
Anyone with heart or lung disease
If you begin coughing, experience shortness of breath, or notice worsening respiratory symptoms, consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity until air quality improves.
While the smoky skies may look alarming, they're a reminder of just how connected our atmosphere is. Smoke from wildfires burning over 1,000 miles away can travel across North America and impact our weather, visibility, and air quality here in the Delaware Valley.