Canadian wildfire smoke is fouling U.S. air quality. We show where.
Smoke from Canadian wildfires is engulfing much of the eastern and central United States and will last through the week.
The wildfires are releasing large amounts of smoke into the atmosphere. Over the Great Plains, the high-level flow of winds has been pushing the smoke south, and shifting upper-level winds from the west will drag the smoke over the eastern states, according to The Weather Channel.
Where Canadian smoke blankets the U.S.
Unable to view our graphics? Click here to see them.
Is climate change worsening Canadian wildfires?
Some Canadian officials say climate change is playing a part in the blazes. 'It is a simple fact that Canada is experiencing the impacts of climate change, including more frequent and more extreme wildfires,' Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson said in a CTV News report.
Higher temperatures are leading to drier conditions, which makes it easier for forest fires to start. Erratic winds allow the fires to spread, CTV said.
How wildfire smoke can travel thousands of miles
Wildfire smoke worsens air quality
Wildfire smoke has been fouling U.S. air quality for several days, starting in states bordering Canada, including the Dakotas, Minnesota and other Midwestern states.
The smoke has drifted south and east, creating moderate air quality levels for a large swath of central and southeastern states, according to AirNow.gov. By the morning of June 3, air quality in Tallahassee, Jacksonville and Gainesville, Florida, was at a moderate level.
How wildfire smoke can endanger your health
Inhaling smoke can result in a variety of ailments, from minor irritability to more serious problems like respiratory and cardiovascular disorders.
According to the EPA, particulate matter, also known as PM 2.5, is a main component of wildfire smoke and is the air pollutant of greatest concern to public health. The fine particles are inhaled and enter your lungs and bloodstream where they can cause damage to other organs. Exposure has been linked to a higher risk of lung cancer, heart attacks, strokes and brain damage.
If the air quality becomes unhealthy, avoid physical exertion, including indoors. While inside, keep windows and doors shut. Leave off any air conditioning or fan systems that pull air from outside, and use air filters or air purifiers.
You can monitor air quality in your area at AirNow.gov.
More: U.S and Canada wildfire and smoke tracker. See air quality warnings near you.
More: Which states will see smoke from Canadian wildfires? EPA issues air quality warnings.
CONTRIBUTING Jeanine Santucci and Chad Murphy, USA TODAY Network
SOURCE AirNow.gov, The Air Quality Index, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, NASA, NOAA
This story was updated to add new information.
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