Dangerous air quality is forecast for millions of Americans Wednesday.July 14, 2026, 1:05 PMOver 800 wildfires are burning through forests in Canada, creating heavy smoke that could potentially affect millions of Americans this week.Some of the largest blazes are in west-central Ontario province. Those fires are burning through thick forests, releasing significant amounts of smoke. Smoke rises from the Lussier River Wildfire, north of Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada, July 11, 2026.BC Wildfire Service via ReutersOntario has been experiencing a heat wave, with record-breaking temperatures soaring over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, according to forecasts.There are also at least a dozen wildfires burning in northern Minnesota near the Canadian border.Wildfire Smoke MapABC NewsThe wind will begin directing that very heavy smoke into the U.S. Tuesday night, creating dangerous air quality for millions across the upper Midwest and Northeast Wednesday.Wildfire Smoke MapABC NewsBy sunset on Wednesday, very heavy smoke may reach New York City and Providence, Rhode Island. It will stream through Green Bay, Milwaukee, Grand Rapids, Detroit and Buffalo before then. Wildfire Smoke MapABC NewsConditions in New York are not expected to be as intense as they were in June 2023. Hazy skies are expected and air quality will likely become unhealthy.Popular Reads