Canadian Wildfire Smoke & Air Quality Outlook for Thursday, July 16, 2026

Please be advised that current meteorological guidance indicates that smoke from ongoing Canadian wildfires is expected to impact air quality across portions of the Northeast, including New Jersey, during the day tomorrow, Thursday, July 16.

While forecast confidence continues to evolve, periods of elevated fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are possible as smoke is transported into the region. Conditions may range from hazy skies with reduced visibility to periods of degraded air quality, particularly if the smoke reaches the surface. Forecast models indicate the greatest potential for impacts during the late morning through evening hours.

Operational Considerations:

• Expect noticeably hazy skies and reduced visibility at times.
• Outdoor personnel, public safety responders, public works crews, and other employees working extended periods outdoors should monitor for symptoms related to smoke exposure.
• Individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease, older adults, young children, and other sensitive populations may experience increased respiratory symptoms if air quality deteriorates.
• Agencies conducting outdoor events should monitor conditions throughout the day and be prepared to modify activities if air quality worsens.

Recommended Actions:

• Monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and any Air Quality Action Day notifications issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. EPA AirNow program.
• Consider limiting prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities if AQI reaches unhealthy levels.
• Ensure facilities with vulnerable populations maintain indoor air quality by keeping windows and doors closed when practical and operating HVAC systems on recirculation where appropriate.
• Encourage personnel experiencing respiratory distress to seek medical evaluation as appropriate.

Links:

https://www.airnow.gov/

https://dep.nj.gov/airmon/

Monmouth County OEM will continue to monitor forecast trends and provide updates should conditions warrant additional operational considerations or protective actions.