Air quality reaches unhealthy levels for some groups in North Jersey from wildfire smoke

Liam Quinn, NorthJersey.com
·1 min read

Air quality alerts are in effect Tuesday as smoke once again clouds North Jersey. Sensitive groups could be at risk in certain areas throughout the day

The poor air quality is the result of Canadian wildfire smoke drifting south, leading to an excess amount of particulate matter, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

AirNow.gov's smoke map shows unhealthy levels above different areas in North Jersey, particularly in the towns around Paterson, including Glen Rock and farther north in Franklin Lakes. Air quality is also unhealthy for sensitive groups in parts of Morris County.

According to AirNow.gov, here is Tuesday's AQI forecast for different parts of New Jersey:

  • Central: 105 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)

  • Delaware Water Gap: 110 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)

  • Monmouth County: 85 (Moderate)

  • North Central: 110 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)

  • Northeast Urban: 105 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)

  • Riverline: 105 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)

  • South Coastal: 75 (Moderate)

  • Southeast Burlington and Ocean counties: 75 (Moderate)

  • Southern Bay: 75 (Moderate)

Wednesday's forecast is not much better, with most of the state set to experience similar AQI levels.

"The highest levels of particulate matter are expected in northern portions of the state," said the state DEP in a briefing.

As a result of the air quality, the DEP declared Tuesday an "Action Day" in Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, Essex and Union counties, meaning the department is advising sensitive groups, including the elderly and young children, are advised to limit any strenuous outdoor activities.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Why is the NJ air quality bad today? Report for North Jersey