Global warming has taken over us, and climate change’s devastating impact on our lives is becoming increasingly evident and alarming. The increase in devastating wildfires around the world has been one of the most concerning effects. Canada, which is known for its vast wilderness and pristine landscapes, has been battling major wildfires that have not only destroyed much of its own land but have also cast a smoke gloom over nearby areas. In one of the recent events, even in New York, these Canadian wildfires have had an impact due to which inhabitants are feeling the disruptive effects of the smoky air,

In addition to the health dangers associated with smog, it has interrupted countless Americans’ daily lives. According to a New York Times story, the smoke had generated such pollution that the sky over New York had turned dark on Wednesday and the air had become hazardous to breathe. Some flights have also been cancelled. According to Reuters, New York’s air quality on Tuesday and Wednesday was the worst in the world for two days. The Canadian wildfires that have engulfed New York in smoke are the result of a plethora of things, including dry weather, protracted droughts, and the general warming trend brought on by climate change. These wildfires have increased in power and regularity over the past few years, wreaking havoc and spreading vast amounts of smoke due to a potent combination of dead vegetation, strong winds, and lightning strikes.

The danger the Canadian wildfire prevails 

Wildfire smoke has the ability to stay in the air for weeks and is more toxic than typical air pollution. A vast area (many miles) can be covered by this smoke. Additionally, wildfires harm more than just trees, bushes, and other organic matter. Such flames cause the smoke to contain residues of chemicals, metals, plastics, and biological materials in addition to burning vehicles, buildings, and other biological items. Therefore, the smoky air has caused disruptions in many facets of New York life. All outside activities, including sporting events, picnics, and park strolls, have been suspended or called off.

Health Hazards Associated with the Canadian Wildfire 

According to a statement by  Kent Pinkerton, Co-Director of the Centre for Health and the Environment at the University of California (UC), Davis, wildfire smoke damages tissue severely and results in more inflammation than the same amount of air pollution. Increased emergency room visits for respiratory illnesses, increased heart attacks, strokes, and cardiac arrests, as well as compromised immune systems, have all been connected to wildfire smoke. Skin issues and eye irritation can also be caused due to wildfire. 

People who already have diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are more vulnerable to the negative effects of smokey air. In addition to that, exposure to smoke for an extended period of time may have negative long-term effects on respiratory health in general, implying that even the healthiest person can get affected due to this. 

The long-term repercussions 

The long-term effects of smoke from urban wildfires, the effects of prenatal wildfire exposure on children’s neurological development and respiratory outcomes, and the question of whether wildfire smoke intensifies the negative effects of extremely hot weather are also all subjects of current research. Researchers, earlier this year, cautioned that nutrients delivered in wildfire smoke may lead to downwind algal blooms, which may also have an impact on drinking water reservoirs and lake ecosystems.

The Canadian wildfires not only destroyed enormous wilderness areas, but they also had an impact in areas far away from their area of origination. Residents of New York have experienced disturbances in their everyday lives due to the smoky air, which is a direct result of these wildfires that pose health hazards along with financial damages. The circumstance serves as a harsh reminder of the wide-ranging effects of climate change and the urgency of the need for global action to address its fundamental causes. It is integral to make efforts to lessen the effects of these wildfires while also working towards preventing further disasters by developing extensive climate change adaptation and mitigation methods.

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