Firefighters have been battling a wildfire on the New York-New Jersey border that resulted in the voluntary evacuation of more than 160 homes over the weekend. The fire — which began on Nov. 8 and has burned about 5,000 acres across both states — was about 90% contained, but windy conditions on Saturday enabled it to escape the containment line, prompting the voluntary evacuation. In addition to New York and New Jersey, much of the Northeast is under wildfire threat — including southern New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Maine — due to dry conditions and gusty winds.
While these wildfires create unhealthy air conditions for people who live in surrounding areas, that smoke and particulate matter can also drift and affect those who live thousands of miles away. If you live in an area that’s dealing with wildfire smoke, it’s understandable to have questions about how to stay safe — as well as how much of an effect that smoke can have on your health. Here’s what doctors want you to know. To read the full story.