Thursday, July 16, 2026

The heat isn't done yet — and neither is the wildfire smoke

The city's heat emergency plan has been extended through today as another day of 90-degree temperatures coincides with smoke from Canadian wildfires drifting into the region.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is forecasting an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 200 for the NYC metro area today — considered "Unhealthy." Officials are urging New Yorkers to limit outdoor activity, especially those with heart or lung conditions, older adults and children.

Cooling centers will remain open today, and free KN95 masks are available at locations citywide. Locally, that would be at the 9th Precinct on Fifth Street between First and Second Avenues... plus our two library branches, Ottendorfer on Second Avenue and Tompkins Square on 10th Street. Find a map for other NYC locations here. 

According to The City Reporter, "when smoke from Canadian wildfires engulfed the city in June 2023, the boroughs turned suddenly orange, with air quality indices reaching 484 — the highest ever recorded." 

The City Reporter has more FAQs and resource info here.
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1 comment:

  1. AnonymousJuly 16, 2026 at 11:31 AM

    The heatwave, the Canadian smoke paired with the Cyclosporiasis parasite outbreak is sensory overload for so many. What a summer to remember.

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