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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Stephen Whyno

Canadian wildfire smoke raises concerns ahead of World Cup 2026 final

  • It remains unclear whether smoke from Canadian wildfires will affect the World Cup 2026 final, though air quality in East Rutherford, New Jersey is forecast to improve to "moderate."
  • New York and New Jersey officials have issued an air quality health alert as a result of wildfire smoke caused by the wildfires, which is affecting the entire northeast of the U.S. and southern Canada.
  • Spain trained outdoors in hazardous air conditions on Thursday, prompting concern from experts who said the session should have been held indoors.
  • Air quality improved on Friday, but forecasters say heavy rain is expected on Saturday could affect conditions before the final, which is expected to draw around 80,000 fans.
  • Wildfire smoke poses serious health risks, with studies showing it can affect nearly every organ system and contribute to tens of thousands of deaths each year, numerous studies show.

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