ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) — An air quality alert has been issued for the Southern Tier, including Tompkins and Cortland Counties. 

New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation reports air quality levels are being affected by wildfires in Canada. It means levels of air pollution are elevated due to the presence of fine particles in the air.

People with asthma or other respiratory issues, the elderly, and the very young should avoid spending unnecessary time outside. High-quality masks are recommended for anyone spending time outdoors, as the air quality index has reached a level that could potentially affect everyone. The alert now remains in effect through Wednesday, June 7, 2023. You can track air quality here. 

All afterschool activities for the Ithaca City School District have been cancelled or moved indoors. Cortland’s Dairy Parade scheduled for tonight has also been cancelled. No makeup date has been scheduled.