The Indiana Department of Environmental Management has issued another statewide Air Quality Action Day for Friday because of wildfire smoke and haze. And it could take into the weekend for the air to clear.
But why is this smoke and haze trapped in our region?
The way our current weather-pattern is, the smoke and haze are being transported south from Canada.
New England is seeing the brunt of it, but Michiana is not out of the woods just yet.
The videos coming from New York City look like something from a science-fiction movie.
The orange sky makes it appear like the planet Mars.
All of this is smoke, and haze trapped in the atmosphere from wildfires in Canada.
"Well, I've seen the images in New York, and it looks just terrible. I can't imagine what people are living through right now," said Dr. James Harris, Allergy & Asthma Specialist.
The air quality is cancelling major league baseball games, Broadway shows and delaying flights along the east coast.
Regional weather patterns are keeping the poor air quality locked in place.
High pressure over Wisconsin and low pressure over New England are funneling smoke and haze south, with the greatest concentration over New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey.
The amount of air pollution isn't as high in Michiana, but it is creating hazy skies with vibrant orange sunrises and sunsets.
A local allergist says it's making it hard for some to breathe.
"Well, anyone with chronic respiratory illnesses like asthma or emphysema are very much at risk right now. Seniors, as well, are at risk. Infants, children... those that really can't protect themselves well or have to be outside are at really high risk right now," said Harris.
Those who suffer from the poor air quality can experience eye, nose and throat irritation.
It can also lead to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and struggling to complete outdoor tasks.
Dr. Harris recommends those with asthma or emphysema stay indoors and filter the air you breathe as much as possible.
"Wearing a mask if you have to go outside would be a very effective way to prevent or control symptoms like that,” said Harris.
To check the current air quality and where it ranks on a scale, you can look here.
To see an interactive map of that air quality rank, while also giving contours of where the smoke/haze currently is in the country look here.
