Smoky NYC Air Measured Like Smoking 10 Cigarettes, Expert Warns

New York City residents are breathing unhealthy air due to wildfire smoke from Canada, with the AQI in the 151–200 range; an expert says three hours outside is like smoking 2.5 cigarettes, and a full day outdoors could feel equivalent to about 10 cigarettes, with short-term symptoms such as itchy eyes, fatigue and shortness of breath. The city recommends staying indoors when possible, using air purification or air conditioning to filter pollutants, and is providing free K95 masks to those who must venture outside to reduce risk.