MID-HUDSON – If you see what looks like a haze outside and you smell smoke as if it is coming from a nearby firepit, it is actually coming from Canadian forest fires burning hundreds of miles away.
The state departments of Environmental Conservation and Health are advising that exposure can cause short-term health effects such as irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath.
Exposure to elevated levels of fine particulate matter can also worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease.
If you are susceptible to the negative effects of this smoke, you are advised to stay indoors or when going outside, wearing a mask.
