STORY: In New York City, the George Washington Bridge, an iconic symbol connecting New York to New Jersey, was shrouded in a thick veil of smoke.

The air quality has deteriorated significantly, prompting authorities to issue advisories. People were being urged to limit their time outdoors, and those with respiratory issues have been advised to consider wearing masks.

Wildfire smoke has been linked with higher rates of heart attacks and strokes, increases in emergency room visits for asthma and other respiratory conditions, and eye irritation, itchy skin and rashes, among other problems.