Dear Ithaca Campus and Cornell AgriTech communities,

Earlier today, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for Fine Particulates in Central New York until midnight tonight. Due to ongoing wildfires in North America, air quality levels in Tompkins County are currently greater than an air quality index value of 100 for Fine Particulates, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Sensitive individuals may include children and teenagers, older adults, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. If you are prone to air quality effects, it is recommended that you remain indoors as much as possible. All individuals should limit outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. Campus units should evaluate outdoor operations and scheduled activities and guide employees accordingly.

More information about air quality resources and protective measures can be found at emergency.cornell.edu. If AQI levels in our region exceed 200, which is considered very unhealthy, the university will follow up with further guidance.

Sincerely,

Christine Rogers
Senior Director, Environment Health and Safety