The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an air quality alert for all of New York City, and health officials are urging New Yorkers to not overexert themselves when outside.  

The NYSDEC’s air quality alert will be active through Wednesday, and the department specifically warns New Yorkers with asthma and other respiratory issues to act cautiously.  

“All of this haze if from the wildfire smoke from Canada,” said News 12 Storm Watch meteorologist Hope Osemwenkhae. “This time it’s coming from Quebec, and over 70 wildfires are currently burning there.” 

Dr. Elias Yousef, of NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County, says vulnerable groups should be mindful of the warning.  

“You can hear yourself breathing, you can develop chest pain, it can include a runny nose and watery eyes,” said Yousef, who adds that the area’s poor air conditions can also affect infants, children, and seniors.