Breathing New York City’s smoke-filled air for a full day is equivalent to smoking 10 cigarettes, a pollution expert warned Thursday as wildfire haze from Canada and the Great Lakes blanketed the region.
The city has been under an Air Quality Health Advisory since Wednesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 151-200—far above the 0-50 range considered "good" by the state Department of Environmental Conservation.
How Wildfire Smoke Compares to Cigarette Exposure
Michael Petroni, a former EPA pollution expert, said the rule of thumb is that 20 AQI points over a full day equals the toxin exposure of one cigarette. Spending three hours outside in the current conditions equals about 2.5 cigarettes, he told The Post.
The AQI measures fine particulate matter, including heavy metals, aerosol droplets, and other invisible carcinogens that enter the bloodstream and strain the immune system. Over time, this exposure increases risks of cancer and heart disease, Petroni noted.
Immediate Health Risks and Symptoms
Short-term exposure can cause itchy eyes, lethargy, inflammation, mucus buildup, headaches, and shortness of breath. Physical activity becomes harder, as the body struggles to clear pollutants from the lungs, Petroni explained.
How New Yorkers Can Reduce Risk
Officials urge residents to stay indoors, use air purifiers or air conditioning, and wear K95 masks if venturing outside. The masks filter up to 95% of pollutants, according to Petroni.
- Current AQI range: 151-200 ("unhealthy")
- Advisory in effect since: Wednesday
- Free K95 masks available for outdoor use
