NEW YORK: New York City is engulfed in thick smoke from wildfires in Canada. Even in broad daylight it is dark. The government is distributing masks to those who go out of their homes as the smoke can harm people's health. A strict instruction has also been given to go out wearing a mask.
Thick orange smoke blanketed the city and affected traffic. There are also concerns that blurred vision could lead to accidents. The smoke also affected air travel. Some flights have been temporarily cancelled.
In the meanwhile, efforts to douse the wildfires in Canada are progressing. The fire is spreading in 450 small and big places. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told the media that Canada is experiencing the most devastating wildfires in history. The United States has offered Canada all assistance to douse the fire. Canadian authorities said the fire can be extinguished within two days.
The present situation in New York is raising concerns whether the American Regional Conference of the Loka Kerala Sabha to be held on Saturday will be adversely affected. The conference will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The chief minister and his team left for New York via Dubai this morning. Finance Minister K N Balagopal, Speaker A N Shamseer are accompanying the chief minister. Chief Minister's wife Kamala Vijayan, Speaker's wife and son are also in the team.
Minister Veena George will accompany the chief minister to Cuba after the US visit. The chief minister and his team will return on June 19.