Smoke from more than 800 wildfires burning across Canada, particularly in Ontario, has spread across much of the United States, affecting approximately 109 million people across the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast regions. Major cities including New York and Toronto have experienced hazardous air quality conditions, with authorities urging residents to limit outdoor activities and stay indoors where possible.
The spread of smoke has prompted a political response from US officials. President Donald Trump has blamed Canada for the air quality crisis, with some Republicans threatening sanctions and tariffs against Canada. Canadian officials, including leader Mark Carney, have countered by emphasizing that both nations share responsibility for addressing climate change, which experts say is worsening wildfire conditions. Some sources note that wildfires are also actively burning within the United States itself.
The smoke has created visible orange haze across affected regions and has raised concerns about impacts on major events, with one source noting potential effects on the World Cup final. Air quality alerts remain in effect across more than 20 US states as smoke continues to drift from Canadian wildfires.
Sources
- BBC World
- BBC World (2)
- BBC World (3)
- BBC World (4)
- The Guardian World
- The Guardian World (2)
- The Guardian World (3)
- Sky News World
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