Smoke in the air brings recess, sports, zoos to a halt in Southern Tier
Thick, hazy conditions descended on the Southern Tier Tuesday, sending families scrambling to alter outdoor plans, confused residents reporting fire concerns to emergency dispatchers and schools canceling outdoor recess and afternoon activities.
Air quality in the area has been at its lowest since 2002 this week as a result of Canadian wildfires and their lingering smoke, which has pushed into New York.
Conditions were expected to be at their worst Wednesday, and while the National Weather Service in Binghamton predicts the weekend will bring cleaner air, many events, businesses and programs have hit pause until the weather clears.
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Who is at risk from poor air quality in Southern Tier
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has urged school districts across the state to suspend outdoor activities and the state Department of Health recommended all New Yorkers limit strenuous outdoor activity as the Air Quality Index (AQI) for many areas reached hazardous levels.
"People who are especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants, including the very young and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as heart disease or asthma, should avoid spending time outdoors, if possible," said Dr. James McDonald, the state's acting health commissioner.
"Those who experience symptoms or have symptoms that worsen should consider consulting their personal physician."
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These places are closed due to wildfire smoke in the area
Some cancellations that were announced Tuesday remained in effect Wednesday, while other events also went by the wayside due to poor air quality.
All beaches, boathouses and concessions at Broome County parks remained closed Wednesday due to poor air quality, Broome County Parks posted on its Facebook page.
Additionally, the Broome County Health Department postponed a rabies clinic scheduled for Wednesday night in Port Crane. Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville was closed Wednesday, as was the Ross Park Zoo in Binghamton.
Spring sports championship chases have also been impacted by the poor air quality. The New York State Public High School Athletic Association moved the boys lacrosse state tournament semifinals from Wednesday to Thursday. Games are scheduled to be played at Cortland State, Tompkins Cortland Community College and the University at Albany.
In Allegany County, Wellsville Central School canceled "JUMP Day" events, an annual community volunteer effort by the district's sixth through eighth grade students.
The Chemung County Department of Aging & Long Term Care announced the postponement of Wednesday's Senior Games BOCCE event.
"The health and safety of our community members are our top priorities, and it is essential that we take necessary precautions to ensure their well-being," said Beth Stranges, director of the county agency.
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This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: Wildfire smoke in NY: How life in the Southern Tier has been impacted
