Wildfire Smoke Prompts Public Health Advisories Across U.S.

Why it matters locally: Heavy wildfire smoke from Canada could significantly impact Maryland's air quality, potentially leading to public health advisories similar to those issued in other affected U.S. cities.

Smoke from Canadian wildfires has impacted air quality across the United States. Public health officials are advising residents on how to protect themselves from the resulting air pollution. On Thursday, people in Chicago wore masks as smoke from Canadian wildfires affected the city's air. City officials recommended that individuals remain indoors. Data indicated that Chicago experienced some of the lowest air quality among large cities globally on that day.