Smoke from forest fires has made North American cities among the most polluted in the world
Kyiv • UNN
Smoke from forest fires in Canada has worsened air quality in Toronto, Detroit, Chicago, and other cities. There are 858 active fires recorded, 111 of which are uncontrolled.
Smoke from massive wildfires in Canada has worsened air quality in several cities in Canada and the US, which this week ranked among the most polluted in the world. Reuters reports, writes UNN.
Details
According to the agency, smoke covered Toronto and also spread to the US territory – from the Midwest to the northeastern states. As of Thursday morning, 858 active wildfires were recorded in Canada, 111 of which remained uncontrolled. The largest number of fire hotspots are in the provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Ontario.
According to the IQAir air quality index, this week Detroit, Chicago, New York, Toronto, and Minneapolis were among the major cities with very unhealthy or hazardous levels of air pollution.
Studies show that smoke from wildfires is more toxic than regular air pollution and can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, cancer, pregnancy complications, and weakening of the immune system.
Reuters notes that dangerous air quality was recorded a few days before the World Cup final, which is to take place on Sunday in New Jersey. At the same time, weather forecasters predict that rain should disperse the smoke before the start of the match.