New York state has issued an air quality alert for the five boroughs with hazy conditions returning on Friday as wildfires continue to burn in Canada.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday that an air quality alert will remain in effect through 11:59 p.m. Friday.

What You Need To Know

  • The air quality index is expected to remain unhealthy for all groups, with a reading above 150 around 6 a.m.

  • People with preexisting conditions, older adults and children are recommended to limit their time outdoors to reduce exposure

  • It’s anticipated that conditions will improve during the afternoon, when winds will push the smoke northwest

  • The MTA will be distributing free N95 masks at a number of subway, Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad stations

The air quality index is expected to remain unhealthy for all groups, with a reading above 150 around 6 a.m., according to the federal air quality monitoring website AirNow.

With readings at that level, it’s recommended that people with heart or lung diseases, older adults and children take steps to reduce exposure – including limiting time outdoors or wearing a high-quality face mask when venturing outside.

All others are advised to reduce time spent outside and avoid strenuous activity, such as running, to avoid harsh breathing.

"With ground-level smoke more visible and air quality continuing to reach unhealthy levels in many parts of the state, we encourage New Yorkers to take precautions to protect their health," Hochul said in a statement.

It’s anticipated that conditions will improve during the afternoon, when winds will push the smoke northwest, according to NY1 meteorologist SallyAnn Mosey. However, air quality readings are expected to remain in the moderate category.

Conditions are expected to be far less severe than they were earlier this month, when the air quality index soared above 400, bringing hazy, orange skies to the five boroughs.

Cell phone alerts will be used to warn New Yorkers in the event air quality index meets or exceeds 200 and is sustained for an hour or more.

The MTA will be distributing free N95 masks at a number of subway, Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad stations, including Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal, throughout the day.