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Wildfire Smoke Reaches New York City; Air Quality Expected to Improve Before World Cup Final
Smoke from fires in northern Minnesota and western Ontario reached the northeastern United States on July 15. New York City recorded very unhealthy air quality levels while also issuing a Code Red heat advisory.
Jul 15, 9:45 PM·1m read9 sources
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Wildfire smoke from northern Minnesota and western Ontario, Canada, reached New York City and other parts of the Midwestern, Northeastern and MidAtlantic United States on July 15, 2026. Air quality indices in most affected regions climbed to the 151-200 range, rated unhealthy, while New York City readings entered the 201-300 range, rated very unhealthy.
The smoke carries fine particulate matter known as PM2.5, particles 2.5 micrometers or smaller that can affect respiratory and cardiovascular health.
New York City also declared Code Red status on July 15 because forecast heat indices were expected to reach triple digits. City officials opened cooling centers that residents can locate through an online tool and launched a Beat the Heat website with safety guidance on hydration, clothing and rest breaks. The FIFA World Cup Trophy was displayed at Hudson Yards the same day under hazy skies.
Smoke conditions are forecast to persist through Friday, July 17, with possible denser plumes on Thursday. Showers and thunderstorms are expected Saturday, July 18, bringing temperatures down to the 80s. The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina is scheduled for July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Forecasters project mid-80s temperatures and partly sunny skies for the match.
