Published on
August 7, 2025 |
By: TTW News Desk
Wildfire smoke is impacting Saratoga County, New York, creating serious air quality issues and public health concerns which poses dire risks for visitors. The region has been shrouded in haze for 2 weeks straight, experiencing AQI levels over 100 on August 4-5, marking the air as unhealthy for sensitive groups. Parts of Saratoga County’s air quality levels are exceeding 150 which is classified as very unhealthy for everyone. This deterioration in air quality is directly linked to the Saratoga wildfire smoke being carried southeast from active wildfires in Canada.
The sharp decline in air quality in Saratoga is a result of Saratoga wildfire smoke being transported by winds from active wildfires in Canada. According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC), there are 737 active wildfires across Canada, with 504 of these fires being out of control. The smoke is traveling southeastward, reaching Saratoga County and affecting air quality, reducing visibility and posing health risks. These wildfires have triggered concern about the long-term impact of Saratoga wildfire smoke on the region, particularly for tourists planning to visit during this period.
The presence of Saratoga wildfire smoke has significant implications for tourism in the region. Known for its outdoor activities like the famous Saratoga Race Course and the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, the area is facing challenges as air quality worsens. The hazards of smoke from wildfires impacts events like hiking, races and other adventurous activities making them dull and even unsafe for travellers. Due to the ongoing smoke event from the Saratoga wildfires, visitors are recommended to stay indoors and when necessary, to check up on air quality reports to avoid exposure to harmful conditions.
For those planning to visit Saratoga, it’s crucial to be aware of the health risks associated with Saratoga wildfire smoke. The New York Department of Health has issued warnings for sensitive groups, including those with heart or lung conditions, young children, pregnant women and the elderly. Travellers should limit strenuous activities outdoors and stay updated on air quality forecasts through resources like airnow.gov. By following these recommendations, visitors can ensure their health and safety while still enjoying some of the region’s attractions indoors.
In late July 2025, Saratoga County experienced a significant decline in air quality due to Canadian wildfire smoke, prompting state agencies to issue air quality health advisories. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Department of Health (DOH) warned that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels had pushed the Air Quality Index (AQI) above 100, making conditions unhealthy for sensitive groups such as children, seniors and individuals with heart or lung conditions. This alert affected several regions, including the Capital District and Adirondacks, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Fast forward to early August, and Saratoga County is once again grappling with deteriorating air quality due to the same source—Canadian wildfires. On August 4 and 5, air quality levels in some parts of the county surpassed 150, indicating dangerous conditions for all individuals. The persistent haze and poor air quality continue to pose challenges for outdoor tourism and events in the region.
Even though both events are caused by the same factor, the one in August seems more serious due to the higher AQI levels which indicates that the air quality worsened as compared to July. This shows the Saratoga wildfire smoke is increasingly affecting the air quality of Saratoga County which in turn is damaging the tourism industry by restricting outdoor activities, events, and the quality of the experience offered to the visitors. Those looking to travel to Saratoga County should pay special attention to the region’s air quality levels, especially as it determines the suitability of the outdoor attractions for visiting.
