Dear Ithaca Campus and Cornell AgriTech communities,

Smoke from wildfires is impacting air quality in our region and in most areas the air quality index (AQI) is above 100, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Yesterday, Tompkins County Whole Health issued an advisory that our region’s air quality index (AQI) has exceeded 150, which is considered unhealthy for all individuals. It is anticipated that air quality will again be poor today, Tuesday, August 5.

People may experience adverse health effects, particularly those with underlying health conditions such as asthma or heart disease, which may make them more sensitive to particulate air pollution. It is advised that you limit strenuous outdoor exercise and reduce your exposure to outdoor air by taking frequent breaks or remaining indoors.

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