A second day of hazy skies and health warnings is gripping Hudson Valley and surrounding regions, as an air quality alert remains in effect due to smoke drifting in from ongoing wildfires in Canada.
According to state officials, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to exceed 100 on Sunday, well above the threshold considered safe for sensitive groups. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered good, but readings above 100 may pose health risks, especially to those with respiratory or heart conditions, children, and older adults.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation warned that elevated levels of fine particulate matter in the air can trigger a range of symptoms, including coughing, sneezing, eye and throat irritation, and shortness of breath. Those with underlying health conditions like asthma or cardiovascular issues are at particular risk…