The Daily There’s No Escaping Wildfire Smoke
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Jun 9, 2023 
David Wallace-Wells, a climate columnist for The New York Times, dives into the alarming air quality crisis caused by Canadian wildfires. He discusses the unprecedented pollution levels in New York and the growing frequency of wildfires due to climate change. Wallace-Wells explores the health risks associated with wildfire smoke, linking it to respiratory and cardiovascular issues. He emphasizes the urgent need for action against climate change and shares practical advice for protecting health amid worsening air quality.
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Global Smoke Drift from Australian Fires
- Australia's 2019-2020 "Black Summer" fires were devastating, with intense blazes forcing beach rescues.
- Smoke traveled across the Pacific, affecting New Zealand and even reaching South America and the Atlantic, demonstrating increasing global smoke drift.
Worsening Air Quality
- Hotter fires create smoke that travels farther, impacting air quality in unexpected areas like New York.
- While extreme AQI levels like 400 may not be the new normal, air quality will likely worsen, especially in the eastern U.S.
Health Impacts of Wildfire Smoke
- Research on wildfire smoke's health impacts is still developing but suggests it's comparable to other PM 2.5 pollution.
- Every new study reveals worse effects than previously thought, affecting more aspects of human health.