Air quality health advisory issued in NY due to Canada, Oregon wildfires

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC)— Smoke from wildfires caused a haze over the skies of Rochester, and now state officials say, it’s impacting the air quality, too.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the State Department of Health Tuesday issued an Air Quality Health Advisory throughout the state, with concern over "fine particulate matter."

DEC explains exposure to fine particulate matter can cause short-term health effects such as irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Longer exposure can also worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease.

The DOH says people with heart or breathing problems, and children and the elderly may be particularly sensitive

Heading inside can reduce your exposure, you’re also asked to avoid strenuous activities in areas where concentrations are high.

The advisory will be in effect 10:00 a.m. through midnight