In Pics: Canadian fires create thick haze across New York City

Smoke from raging wildfires in Canada has triggered air quality alerts in a number of US states, with the sky over New York City rapidly darkening. New York State Governor Kathy Hochul calling the development "an emergency crisis". The officials urged people not to exercise outside and reduce their exposure to the smoke citing immediate and long-term health risks from the air.

New Yorkers spotted an orange haze blanketing the city’s skyline caused due to the wildfire smoke from Canada travelling southwards towards New York City. Credit: Reuters Photo

The officials urged people not to step out of their homes and limit themselves exposing to the smoke. Credit: Reuters Photo

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has extended its citywide air quality health advisory, and those who have underlying health conditions are advised to avoid outdoor activity as much as possible. Credit: Reuters Photo

The Statue of Liberty got covered in orange haze and smoke caused by wildfires in Canada travelling southwards towards New York City. Credit: Reuters Photo

The state's Long Island and Hudson Valley are under the air quality advisory as well. Credit: Reuters Photo

In New York City and several large cities across the state, public schools have cancelled outdoor activities. Credit: Reuters Photo

Due to the air quality, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has paused and delayed flights at certain area airports to mitigate the reduced visibility the region is experiencing. Credit: Reuters Photo

The worst period of hazy, unhealthy air in New York City would last from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning, according to a New York Times analysis of computer forecast models. Credit: Reuters Photo