Outdoors · Statewide
Build an AQI Check Into Smoke-Season Plans
The state AQI forecast helps outdoor workers, coaches, campers, and families adjust plans when smoke or fine particles push air quality down.
Published June 23, 2026 · Last verified June 23, 2026
Wildfire smoke days are easier to handle when the check is routine, not last-minute. DEC posts predicted maximum air-quality values for eight advisory regions in New York. DEC and the State Health Department issue an Air Quality Health Advisory with precautions when the forecast is expected to exceed 100. Health guidance points people toward shorter, less intense outdoor activity as conditions worsen, especially for children, older adults, pregnant people, and people with heart or lung disease.
Before a practice, job, hike, or camp day, find the correct AQI region and check the forecast for that day. Set a backup indoor plan before the group meets. If conditions worsen, use the state health guidance to shorten the outing or lower its intensity, and watch for coughing or shortness of breath.
Before going out, pair the regional reading with the precautions for the people and activity in the plan. Check both close to the start of an outdoor shift, practice, hike, or camp day. The number that matters is the current regional forecast, not an old screenshot or a reading from another part of the state.