Canadian Wildfires Causing Haze, Smoky Odor in Union County

Haze and smoke affecting Union County on July 16, 2026 are caused by ongoing Canadian wildfires, according to an alert issued by Union County on Wednesday evening.

Over 800 wildfires burning across Canada are drifting smoke into New Jersey and the Northeast. Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a statement warning that smoke from Canadian wildfires was expected to reach New Jersey and affect air quality.

"Sensitive individuals should limit time spent outdoors and avoid strenuous activity," Governor Sherrill said.

The National Weather Service issued an Air Quality Alert for Union, Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, and Essex counties through midnight Thursday, July 16. The weather service warned that fine particulates in the affected regions may reach or exceed unhealthy standards.

Union County Life provides environmental and public health alerts from Union County agencies and state officials affecting residents across all 21 municipalities.

The alert specifically affects sensitive groups: people with asthma, heart disease, lung disease, older adults, and children. Anyone in these groups should take precautions.

Residents experiencing unhealthy air quality should limit time spent outdoors. Avoid strenuous activity. Keep windows and doors closed. Use air purifiers if available. Anyone with respiratory or heart concerns should remain indoors.

If you have symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent coughing, seek medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider if air quality is affecting your health.

Residents should monitor air quality updates from the National Weather Service and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for changes to the alert status and any new guidance.

Check unioncountylife.com and local news sources for updates on the air quality situation and when the alert is lifted.

FAQ

Q: Why is the air quality poor in Union County on July 16?
A: Over 800 wildfires burning across Canada are drifting smoke into New Jersey and the Northeast. The smoke is causing haze and unhealthy air quality conditions across the region.

Q: Which counties are under an air quality alert?
A: The National Weather Service issued an Air Quality Alert for Union, Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, and Essex counties through midnight Thursday, July 16, 2026.

Q: Who is most at risk from poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke?
A: Sensitive individuals are most at risk, including people with asthma, heart disease, lung disease, older adults, and children. Anyone in these groups should take extra precautions.

Q: What should I do to protect myself from poor air quality?
A: Limit time spent outdoors. Avoid strenuous activity. Keep windows and doors closed. Use air purifiers if available. If you have respiratory or heart concerns, remain indoors. Wear an N95 or KN95 mask if you must be outside.

Q: What does the Air Quality Alert mean?
A: The National Weather Service warned that fine particulates in the air may reach or exceed unhealthy standards. This means air quality poses a health risk, especially for sensitive groups. Governor Mikie Sherrill advised sensitive individuals to limit outdoor time and avoid strenuous activity.

Q: How long will the air quality alert last?
A: The Air Quality Alert is in effect through midnight Thursday, July 16, 2026. Check for updates on whether the alert will be extended.

Q: Should I seek medical care if I have symptoms?
A: Yes. If you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent coughing, seek medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider if air quality is affecting your health.

Q: Where can I find current air quality information?
A: Monitor the EPA Air Quality Index (AQI) at airnow.epa.gov. Check the National Weather Service and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for updates. Monitor Union County Life and local news for alerts.