As wildfires rage in the Canadian wilderness, the billowing smoke has begun to descend on the Northeast. Throughout this next week, the effects of the fires in Canada will thicken the air.
Smoke from the wildfires, mainly occurring in Ontario and Quebec, began to drift south into Massachusetts earlier this week, darkening and yellowing the sky. Air quality throughout the week is projected to reach a “moderate” level, being mostly unnoticeable though possibly irritating some with breathing difficulties.
According to Natural Resources Canada, the government origination that agitates data on the fires, roughly 1,900,000 hectares have already been burnt in wildfires this year, recently mainly in Ontario. That’s about 7,300 square miles, or just about the total land area of Massachusetts.
The blanket of smoke will, in theory, block sunlight and reduce temperatures, though it will hardly be noticeable with forecasts still in the 80s. Less heat is likely to lessen the power of developing storms, however.
The smoke will alter sunsets, so keep a keen eye out for vibrant skies this week.
By Sam Bishop