Smoke from Canadian Wildfires Affects Northern US, Triggers Air Quality Alerts

Smoke originating from wildfires in Canada has covered several major cities in the northern part of the United States. This has led to hazardous air quality warnings impacting over 100 million people across 15 states. Experts in health are raising concerns about the implications of fine particulate matter, which can exacerbate conditions like asthma and heart disease, and might even pose cancer risks.

The fires are influencing air quality in areas like the Midwest and Northeast, causing the postponement of some sporting events. For instance, Thursday saw a delay of Major League Soccer games and a rescheduling of an MLB match in Philadelphia by an hour due to air quality worries.

As Major League Baseball kicked off what is often referred to as the unofficial second half of the season, Friday had five games planned in regions affected by the smoke, with some adjusting their schedules slightly.

Los Angeles Dodgers vs. New York Yankees at 7:05 p.m. ET

Back in 2023, the Yankees had to delay a game because of poor air quality, even when temperatures were more than double what they are this week. Fortunately, the air quality in New York improved throughout the day, allowing the game to proceed as scheduled.

Chicago White Sox vs. Toronto Blue Jays at 7:15 p.m. ET

Interestingly, the Blue Jays are currently in a country experiencing wildfires, which raises some concerns. On Thursday, the air quality had reached a critical level but by Friday afternoon, it was deemed to have a “low health risk.” However, nearby cities in Ontario still reported high-risk levels.

The Blue Jays, playing in their retractable-roof Rogers Center, indicated that the roof would close due to air quality issues. They also mentioned that if conditions change, there might be a chance for the roof to be opened later in the game, pending agreement from officials.

Miami Marlins at Milwaukee Brewers at 7:40 p.m. ET

At around 1:10 p.m. ET, the air quality in Milwaukee was rated as “very unhealthy” at an index of 287, but it improved to 133 by 5 p.m. The game is still set to go ahead as planned as American Family Field boasts a retractable roof. Fans have the option to exchange tickets if they prefer not to attend.

Pittsburgh Pirates at Cleveland Guardians at 7:10 p.m. ET

Just a few hours prior, the Guardians posted their starting lineup on social media, but the game was soon postponed to Saturday, resulting in a day-night doubleheader. Fans unable to attend the rescheduled game may exchange their tickets for future matches.

As of 5 p.m. ET, Cleveland’s air quality was reported at 209, classified as “very unhealthy.” Nearby Akron had reached nearly a “danger” level of 500 late Thursday.

Minnesota Twins at Chicago Cubs at 8:05 p.m. ET

In Chicago, the air quality index was labeled “very unhealthy” at 241 in the afternoon but has since dropped to 138. It’s somewhat rare for Friday night games to happen at Wrigley, but the match is slated to occur at 5:10 p.m. ET.