Smoky skies over the US: Canadian wildfires disrupt summer plans and World Cup forecasts

Wildfire smoke from Canada blankets much of the Midwest, Northeast and mid-Atlantic, triggering dangerous air quality alerts for over 100 million people, forcing the cancellation or postponement of outdoor events and prompting mask use and indoor plans. Communities face health risks, especially vulnerable groups and outdoor workers, as officials urge staying indoors and wearing masks. A front is expected to clear the air by Saturday, with improving conditions anticipated for Sunday’s World Cup final in New York, though thinner smoke could linger.