Home/Olympics

Devastating wildfires continue to ravage parts of Canada, and their consequences are now being felt in major cities like New York. Large areas from Maryland to Canada’s capital have been covered by an unprecedented amount of smoke caused by the wildfires in Quebec and Nova Scotia.

New York City, where the air quality has fallen to dangerously low levels, has been badly impacted. The hazardous air quality caused by the wildfires has become a major concern, prompting renowned alpine ski racer Lindsey Vonn to share her first-hand experience and raise awareness about the severity of the situation.

Hazardous air quality engulfed New York City

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Taking to social media, the Olympian shared her personal experience with the hazardous air quality that has engulfed the city. Through her Instagram stories, Vonn shared the alarming conditions, demonstrating the severity of the situation in a video posted by TODAYSHOW. The video showcased the orange haze and low visibility, highlighting the degrading air index of the city.

Her message resonated with the experiences of millions of New Yorkers who are once again subjected to poor air conditions. Vonn penned, “Literally can’t breathe outside.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TODAY (@todayshow)

Her message shed light on the immediate and tangible effects of the wildfires, emphasizing the urgent need to address the issue.

Mayor urged citizens to stay indoors

According to IQAir, a Swiss air monitoring company, Detroit and New York City are experiencing a severe crisis in air quality. In terms of air pollution, New York City at one point came in second place worldwide, just behind New Delhi, India. As a result, Mayor Adams took action by canceling events and shutting beaches, while the largest public school district in the country suspended outdoor activities. Governor Kathy Hochul urged similar safety measures in other cities after a number of school districts in central New York State, including Rochester and Syracuse, suspended outdoor activities.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The presence of smoke-filled air poses significant health risks that cannot be ignored. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can lead to respiratory problems, worsen allergies, and particularly endanger vulnerable individuals. It is crucial for residents to prioritize their well-being by taking necessary precautions, such as staying indoors, utilizing air purifiers, and wearing appropriate masks when venturing outside.

Read more: “Crashing Is Just a Part of Our Job”: Lindsey Vonn Takes Death in Stride as Part of Her Passionate Profession

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The serious situation in the air quality of New York City and Detroit highlights the urgency of taking action to address climate change. To reduce carbon emissions, embrace sustainable practices, and support policies that emphasize the health of our planet, governments, communities, and individuals need to work together. In the wake of continuous degradation of air quality index, alpine skiing queen Lindsey Vonn also voiced her concerns and took a moment to address the need of the hour.

Watch This Story: Lindsey Vonn on Her Relationship with Tiger Woods and His Recovery