Wildfires across Canada and the United States have led to severe air quality issues, with cities like Toronto, New York, Detroit, and Minneapolis experiencing hazardous smoky conditions.The article highlights that while orange skies were once rare, recent years have seen a significant increase in wildfires due to climate change.

Human activities such as fossil fuel burning have raised global temperatures, creating prolonged droughts and extreme heat, which create tinderbox conditions for larger fires.

Scientists note that nearly half of the smoke from wildfires between 1997-2020 can be linked to climate change, with figures rising in more recent years.

Smoke from these fires travels vast distances, affecting millions of people and posing serious health risks, including respiratory issues and increased cardiac events.The article warns that exposure to wildfire smoke can have long-term effects, with some deaths occurring up to three years after a fire.Recommendations include wearing masks, monitoring air quality, and limiting outdoor activities during poor conditions.The situation underscores the urgent need for addressing climate change to mitigate future wildfire risks.