Brookhaven Laboratory Confirms Particles from California Wildfires Reaching Long Island; Raises Health Concerns

BABYLON, NY – Particles from California wildfires have traveled across the country, affecting air quality as far as Long Island. These fires, which have caused significant loss of life, property damage, and mass evacuations, have released large amounts of particulate matter (PM2.5) into the atmosphere.

Accordinf to TBR News Media, a newspaper publisher in Setauket, monitoring by Brookhaven National Laboratory confirmed that particles from the wildfires in Los Angeles have reached Long Island. While these particulates are present in lower concentrations compared to areas closer to the fires, they may still cause health issues for sensitive individuals, such as those with respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

For the majority of the population, these levels are unlikely to pose a health risk. However, medical For most residents, the current levels of wildfire particulates are not likely to pose significant health risks. However, ongoing exposure to even small doses of PM2.5 has been shown to have cumulative effects on lung and heart health over time (CDC).

Fine particles released during wildfires can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Studies indicate that even short-term exposure to wildfire smoke can increase the risk of asthma attacks, heart attacks, and other serious health issues.

Children and residents in areas with persistent air pollution, such as the South Bronx, are particularly vulnerable. Nearly 40% of children in the South Bronx have asthma, a rate much higher than the national average of 10%, largely due to chronic exposure to pollutants from vehicle traffic and industrial emissions.

Experts recommend several steps for those at risk:

• Monitor Air Quality: Use tools like the EPA’s AirNow website to track local air conditions.
• Wear Particle Masks: Masks with a rating of N95 or higher can help filter out fine particles.
• Adjust Medications: Consult healthcare providers about modifying treatments during periods of increased exposure.

The cumulative impact of exposure to wildfire smoke and other pollutants can lead to gradual lung function decline, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions. Even after exposure ends, recovery may be incomplete, contributing to long-term health challenges.

California’s wildfires have not only devastated local communities but also demonstrated the interconnectedness of environmental and public health impacts across regions. While Long Island is far from the fire’s origin, the reach of particulate matter highlights the importance of monitoring air quality and taking preventive measures to safeguard public health.