Heavy, acrid wildfire smoke blanketed much of the eastern United States on Saturday, marring preparations for the weekend's highly awaited World Cup final to be held in an open stadium in New Jersey.

As thick smoke settles in over major cities, Canada recorded the worst air quality in the world.

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Authorities issue health warnings after smoke from wildfires in Canada envelops north-eastern US

The Northeast is experiencing unhealthy air quality due to Canadian wildfires as Sunday’s World Cup final in New Jersey approaches.