New York State environmental and health officials have issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for Thursday, April 24, 2025, covering the New York City Metro and Long Island regions. The advisory is prompted by expected elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) caused by smoke drifting from wildfires in New Jersey. The advisory will be in effect from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
The affected areas include New York City, Rockland, and Westchester counties in the New York City Metro region, as well as Nassau and Suffolk counties on Long Island. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Department of Health (DOH), air pollution levels are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100, indicating potential health risks for sensitive groups. DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton and DOH Commissioner Dr. James McDonald are urging the public—particularly children, older adults, and individuals with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions—to take extra precautions.
Fine particulate matter, also known as PM2.5, consists of tiny solid particles and liquid droplets that are 2.5 microns or smaller in diameter. These particles often originate from sources such as vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and fires. Short-term exposure to PM2.5 can cause symptoms like eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Prolonged exposure can worsen existing health issues, especially in individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular problems.
To reduce exposure, residents are advised to limit strenuous outdoor activities, stay indoors with windows closed, and avoid other sources of indoor air pollution, such as smoking or burning candles and incense. Using air purifiers may also help improve indoor air quality. The DOH and DEC stress that while going indoors may reduce exposure, indoor air quality can still be affected if there are significant sources of PM2.5 inside the home.
Meanwhile, dry weather conditions across much of the state have increased the risk of wildfires, prompting a high fire danger rating in areas including New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, the Capital Region, and parts of the North Country. Fires in these areas can ignite easily and spread rapidly, particularly from unattended brush or campfires. A statewide burn ban remains in effect through May 14, prohibiting the open burning of garbage or leaves year-round.
Certain small fires are still permitted under state regulations. These include campfires less than three feet high and four feet wide, small cooking fires, and ceremonial fires for events such as flag disposals or religious rituals. However, these fires must be closely supervised and fully extinguished before being left unattended. Only clean, untreated wood or charcoal may be burned.
For more information on air quality, fire safety, and public health guidelines, residents can visit the DEC’s and DOH’s websites. The DEC also offers a fact sheet on the Air Quality Index and operates a toll-free Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-535-1345. Residents can subscribe to DEC Delivers for email alerts to stay updated on changing air quality conditions.
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Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs.
