Canadian Wildfire Smoke Blankets New York and Chicago

Major American cities like New York and Chicago are experiencing significant air quality issues due to smoke drifting from wildfires in Canada. On Thursday, Manhattan's skyline was obscured by thick haze, prompting local authorities to issue health warnings. Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the smoke as a "serious threat," particularly as it coincides with high temperatures. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, and free face masks are being distributed at libraries and train stations. In Chicago, authorities have closed local beaches as a precautionary measure. Air quality monitoring services indicated that Chicago and Detroit were among the most polluted cities globally on Thursday evening, with New York also heavily impacted. The U.S. states bordering Canada are particularly affected. Canadian officials report 858 active fires, with many not under control, primarily in the province of Ontario, which is contributing to the dense smoke blanketing parts of the United States.

“

a serious threat