As wildfire smoke from Canada continues to spread across the United States, flights into New York’s LaGuardia airport and Philadelphia have been delayed and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered a ground stop in the area. The smoke has also led to ‘hazardous’ air quality alerts in several areas, including D.C. and New York, where residents are being urged to stay inside or wear masks.

The impact of the smoke has also spurred discussions about the future of climate change. According to an opinion piece in The New York Times, the smoke is a stark reminder of the urgency of the need to address the issue. Similarly, an opinion piece in The Washington Post highlights how the smoke offers a glimpse into what the future might look like if significant action isn’t taken to combat climate change.

Despite the concerning situation, some are hopeful that the current events will serve as a wake-up call for individuals and policymakers alike. As explained in a report on Yahoo News, the smoke provides a clear example of the devastating impact that can occur when climate change is ignored.