While there has not yet been a June 2023 repeat of hazardous air quality in our area, wildfire smoke has returned from a similar spot in Canada.

How does the latest round of hazy skies compare to last year? The biggest difference is the location of the smoke.

Most of the smoke has remained safely above the ground, limiting impacts to air quality and safety.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) so far Wednesday has been near 80, which is considered "moderate," and has fairly few impacts. The smoke is still in the sky, and that has caused hazy and rather gray skies across the area Wednesday. It will actually increase into Thursday afternoon, with some of the highest amounts of smoke so far in 2024. Again, this will remain above the surface, with a moderate air quality index expected again Thursday.

Hazy skies will continue into Friday, with one last batch of smoke likely moving down during the morning, particularly in New York City and east. As the wind shifts direction from the north to the west on Friday, the smoke will clear out Friday night.

AIR QUALITY INDEX SCALE: 0 to 50: Air quality is "good" with minimal risk. 51 to 100: Air quality is acceptable, but a few people may be affected, usually those with significant respiratory conditions and unusually sensitive people to air pollution. 101 to 150: Air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups with respiratory conditions, people may experience health effects. 151 to 200: Air quality is generally unhealthy. Some people may experience health impacts, with more-significant impacts likely for those with respiratory conditions. 201 to 300: Air quality is very unhealthy. There is a much higher risk of health impacts for everyone. 301 and higher: Air quality is hazardous. Everyone is likely to be significantly impacted. Do not be outside unless absolutely necessary. Wear a mask.