NY State EP Alert 4.24.2025|Air Quality Alert
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the National Weather Service (NWS) issued air quality alerts that could affect home care patients and staff in New York City and Long Island through Friday. Smoke from New Jersey wildfires is causing air quality to drop, with fine particulate matter being a concern.
According to the State Weather Risk Communication Center (SWRCC), smoke from wildfires may have a moderate effect today, Thursday, April 24, 2025, with winds blowing smoke towards NYC Metro and Long Island. The DEC states that Rockland and Westchester counties may also be affected.
Wind speed and direction is uncertain for this evening, but likely to pick up tonight, bringing higher concentrations of smoke to affected regions. The result is a predicted major impact through the early hours Friday morning. Wildfire containment and nuanced wind direction and speed will all affect air quality downstate.
During the day Friday, south to north blowing winds will bring continued wildfire smoke that will likely have a moderate impact on the Lower Hudson Valley, NYC, and Long Island. Uncertainty will continue, and air quality alerts may be ongoing.
Provider Guidelines
Vulnerable groups are urged to monitor the Air Quality Index, avoid exertion outdoors, and note any symptoms or worsening health conditions.
Employers are advised to take steps to reduce the risks for vulnerable employees. HCP urges provider members to share this information with their clients, especially those with conditions such as cardiovascular and /or lung diseases. Children under 18, adults aged 65 and older, and pregnant people are also extra vulnerable to these pollutants.
Information on the current regional Air Quality Index (AQI) is available DEC’s AQI site. Air quality information by zip code is also available. DEC continues to monitor conditions and will update the forecast daily.
Health Guidelines
For those who must travel outdoors for significant periods, properly fitted, high-quality masks help reduce exposure. An AQI greater than 100 indicates poorer air quality. Whenever possible, vulnerable individuals in areas with poorer air quality should keep windows closed or use a purifier or air conditioner with a high-efficiency filter. Elderly individuals and those with heart, lung, and other serious conditions should take particular care.
See the Department of Health webpage for more information on health precautions.
As these conditions may persist, any New Yorker experiencing new or worsening symptoms should consult their physician or seek immediate medical help. If experiencing symptoms of respiratory irritation while outside, like coughing, first go inside to find cleaner air.