The City of Buffalo is experiencing an unusual yellow haze due to Canadian wildfire smoke, which has been drifting into the region. The smoke is causing the skies to turn yellow, reducing visibility and raising concerns about air quality. On Thursday, July 16, 2026, the smoke was particularly dense, with residents taking to social media to share photos of the eerie landscape.
The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert for the region, warning of potentially hazardous conditions for people with respiratory issues.
"We urge residents to take precautions and stay indoors if possible, especially if they have pre-existing respiratory conditions," said a spokesperson for the Erie County Department of Health.
The smoke is coming from wildfires burning in Canada, which have been raging for several days. The fires have burned thousands of acres of land, sending massive amounts of smoke into the air.
The University at Buffalo has cancelled outdoor activities due to the poor air quality, and Buffalo Public Schools are advising students and staff to stay indoors during recess.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is monitoring the situation and working with Canadian authorities to mitigate the effects of the wildfires.
As the situation continues to unfold, Buffalo residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect their health. The City of Buffalo will provide updates on the air quality and any further instructions for residents.