Akwesasne engulfed in smoke
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Akwesasne woke up shrouded in a blanket of smoke on May 31 leaving residents with the question, where is it coming from? The smoke is said to have come from a myriad of forest fires that developed in Quebec over the week. Several of the fires continue to burn out of control forcing thousands to evacuate and coating much of Quebec and parts of the northeastern United States in a dense cloud of smoke.
Around 52 forest fires scorched through some 354 square miles in one of Canada’s most populated Provinces. The fires were the result of a period of dry weather followed by intense lightning storms. Lightning strikes are believed to be the main ignition source for a majority of the blazes. Gusty winds from the north have pushed smoke across Quebec and into New England, New York and as far south as Maine.
Thousands of people have been evacuated from the Quebec region, including three aboriginal territories. Smoke has been another health concern causing thousands more to seek refuge in their homes.
The smoke from Quebec has resulted in poor air quality for much of the northeastern United States, including Akwesasne. The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe (SRMT) Air Quality’s air monitoring shed measures for fine particulate matter or PM2.5. This fine matter gets deep into lungs and is measured according to standards set by EPA air quality index. According to the index, normal PM2.5 measurements range from 0-50 microns. On the morning of May 31 a composite sample indicated increased levels of PM2.5 of 101 microns. A concerning level that recommends any persons with respiratory illnesses to remain indoors and refrain from any strenuous activities. There were some cases of hospitalizations from Akwesasne resulting from smoke inhalation but nothing life threatening.
Fires continue to blaze throughout Quebec as hundreds fire fighters from both Canada and the United States have combined forces to battle the flames. Weather forecasts for the area are calling for rain throughout most of the week that will help curb the spread of fires. Hopes are that these fires will get under control soon and smoke clouds like the one that covered Akwesasne will remain an isolated incident.
For more information on Akwesasne’s air quality contact the SRMT Air Quality Division at (518) 358-2756.
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