Wildfires in Canada have caused air quality alerts across the Upper Midwest and Northeast US. Smoke from nearly 200 uncontrolled Canadian fires, impacting over 16.5 million acres, is trapped by a high-pressure system, leading to unhealthy air quality in 14 states. The fine particulate matter in wildfire smoke poses significant health risks, especially for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. Alerts are in effect through Tuesday in many areas, with cities like New York, Boston, and Detroit experiencing poor air quality. Simultaneous wildfires in the West are also causing air quality concerns in California and Colorado.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.