Some schools on Long Island have closed or limited outdoor activities due to smoke that has moved into the area from Canada wildfires.
The Freeport School District and Long Beach School District are closed due to the unhealthy air quality. In addition, Molly College and Adelphi University have announced they will closed today as well. Meanwhile, the Merchant Marine Academy is on a hybrid schedule.
UNHEALTHY AIR: When will the air quality improve in the tri-state area?
Many school sports and activities across Long Island, including recess and field trips, have also been canceled due to the air quality concerns.
Allergist Dr. Raphael Strauss says even people without preexisting conditions could experience symptoms such as eyes burning, difficulty breathing, coughing and sneezing.
"Stay indoors, if you can stay indoors in air conditioning, it is going to make a huge difference," Strauss says.
Officials also advise using fans to circulate the air.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday that the state is making one million N95 masks available. Those can be picked up at facilities including Long Island Rail Road stations.
The LIRR said the masks are available at customer service windows at the following stations:
-Grand Central Madison
-Penn Station
-Moynihan Train Hall
-Jamaica
-Atlantic Terminal
