UTICA, N.Y. — An air quality health advisory has been issued for fine particulate matter due to wildfire smoke from Canada affecting Central New York, including southern Herkimer, Madison, Oneida and Otsego counties.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of Health announced the advisory will be in effect from 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on July 15.
“In addition, there is the potential for visible smoke and hazy skies across the state and New Yorkers may see temporary spikes in smoke-related pollution,” according to the DEC.
Officials said the air quality index is expected to be greater than 100, which can pose health risks.
Exposure to fine particulate matter can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, coughing, sneezing, runny nose and shortness of breath. It can also worsen conditions such as asthma and heart disease.