Wildfire Smoke Engulfs Millions Across US Ahead of World Cup Final

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Washington: Dense wildfire smoke moving south from massive Canadian wildfires covered much of the United States on Friday, prompting harmful air quality alerts for millions only days before the FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey.

The smoke expanded throughout many northeastern and Midwestern states, decreasing visibility and creating health concerns, particularly among children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems. Authorities urged residents in affected areas to limit their outside activities and, if necessary, wear protective masks.

The poor air quality sparked concerns about Sunday's World Cup final between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. While smoke is expected to remain, weather forecasts indicate that conditions will improve by match day due to showers and shifting winds. Organisers are still monitoring the situation, and no adjustments to the match schedule have been announced.

Wildfire smoke, according to health experts, can have an impact on breathing, heart health, and sports performance even when the air quality is merely classified "moderate." With over 80,000 spectators scheduled to attend the final, air quality is a major problem for players, officials, and fans alike.