Smoke from Canada wildfires still affecting air quality

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Air quality alerts are still in effect across the state as smoke from wildfires in Canada travel over New England.

The Environmental Protection Agency New England office said that areas in Rhode Island as well as Connecticut and Massachusetts will exceed federal air pollution standards Wednesday.

The EPA as well as state forecasters predict hazy skies, reduced visibility, and the smell of burning wood will linger in the region over the following days.

People with pre-existing medical conditions should show caution at this time.

The American Lung Association recommends people with medical conditions to stay indoors, circulate air within homes, and keep an eye out for symptoms, especially in children.

Exposure to elevated fine particle pollution levels can affect both your lungs and heart which may cause breathing problems, aggravate asthma, and other pre-existing lung diseases, the EPA said.

A massive wildfire broke out in Canada’s Atlantic Coast last week, forcing at least 16,000 people out of their homes.