Air Quality is Expected to Continue to be a Concern in Albany County Today; Masks to Be Made Available for Sensitive Groups and the General Public

Albany County is expected to experience air quality concerns today due to wildfire smoke from fires burning in Canada. Air Quality Index (AQI) is predicted to be around 150, which falls into the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category. This level of smoke can affect anyone, but older adults, children, and people with asthma, heart disease, or other breathing conditions may feel symptoms more quickly.

The Albany County Department of Health is urging residents to take simple steps to protect themselves. People in sensitive health groups should limit outdoor activity, and all residents should stay informed about changing air quality conditions throughout the day. Residents are encouraged to take simple protective steps, especially during the times when smoke levels peak, including limiting strenuous or long activities outside, and moving activities indoors when possible.

To support community health, N95 masks will be available for Sensitive Groups and the General Public at the Events and Athletics Center (EAC) at the former Saint Rose Campus on Thursday from 9:30am - 2pm. These masks can help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles when worn properly. Instructions will be provided so residents can use the masks effectively.

Who is most at risk from poor air quality?
People with asthma or chronic lung disease, individuals with heart conditions, older adults, children, and anyone who spends long periods outdoors may feel health effects more quickly when smoke levels rise.

What residents can do:

• Limit time outdoors when possible
• Keep windows closed
• Use air purifiers or clean indoor spaces if available
• Pick up free N95 masks at local distribution site at the EAC
• Watch for symptoms like unusual tiredness, trouble breathing, or uneven heartbeat; call your health care provider if you notice these symptoms
• Follow air quality updates from trusted sources such as AirNow.gov and local agencies

Officials will continue to monitor conditions and share updates as more information becomes available. For more information, please contact the Albany County Department of Health.