Where Wildfire Smoke Is The Worst Right Now-And What To Do About It

Key Points:

• The National Weather Service warns residents as far south as South Carolina to monitor air quality due to smoke from hundreds of Canadian wildfires affecting the US.
• Health officials advise limiting outdoor activities or staying indoors with windows closed in areas with unhealthy air quality, especially for vulnerable groups such as those with heart or lung conditions.
• Wildfire smoke contains harmful pollutants and gases like carbon monoxide, which can exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions and increase risks for children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing health issues.
• Wearing N95 or P100 masks is recommended for those who must be outside in affected states, but staying indoors remains the safest option to reduce exposure to dangerous smoke particles and gases.
• Climate change is intensifying wildfire frequency and severity, with longer fire seasons producing more smoke that affects air quality across vast regions; the annual economic cost of wildfires in the US ranges from $394 billion to $893 billion.