Canada Wildfires Disrupt U.S. Flights

Smoke from Canada wildfires have drifted into the Eastern Area of the U.S. and disrupted many flights at various airports.

On Wednesday and Thursday, flights to and from Philadelphia International Airport, LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport were delayed due to heavy smoke and reduced visibility.

To accommodate passengers whose flights were affected by the air quality, American Airlines and United Airlines are waiving change fees and fare differences in the region if they can fly before next Wednesday, per CNBC.

A cloud of orange haze settled over New York earlier this week making the air quality “hazardous” to residents. Kathy Hochul, New York’s Governor, deemed the level of air quality “an emergency crisis” and encouraged people to stay indoors if they can.

Games at Citizens Bank Park and Yankee stadium have been postponed as well as showings for the production of “Hamilton.”

Smoke from the wildfires has the potential to cause asthma and bronchitis in humans, especially those with preexisting respiratory problems.