As a most recent update for June 7, 2023, the air quality in Boston is still very poor due to toxic overflow from the Canada wildfires that started up north in late May. Canadian wildfire season generally lasts from May through October, and unfortunately the fires this season are rampant and aggressive to the point that they are traveling far, far beyond the Canadian border to all of New England, New York, and Washington D.C. The effects are spreading far and it’s important to note that what might seem like a continuation of overcast, cloudy days, is actually the harmful smog from the aftereffects of the fire.
These fumes burned are the final product of dozens of different material items caught en route of the Quebec fires, from the more natural wooded forests to cars and all of their various parts. Below are answers to some common questions from Bostonians in regard to the current air quality in Boston:
Is it safe to spend time outdoors?
Bostonians and those in New England should try to avoid outdoor time as much as possible. Tufts medical professionals also recommend wearing a mask to refrain from breathing any micro particles.
What are microparticles and why are they harmful?
The residue of the wildfires forms tiny waste particles that have saturated the air from the Canada coast all the way down to Washington D.C. Because they are “micro” they can easily enter the lungs and quickly saturate the bloodstream with toxins.
How is the air quality in Boston?
You might be able to tell just by peering out the window, but the air quality is very poor. Regardless of whether or not you have compromised health it is recommend to stay for the next few days or until the sky is completely free of the haze and the air of the smokey scent.