Smog from Canada wildfires blankets New York

An orange-tinged smog caused by Canada's wildfires covered New York on Wednesday, obscuring its famous skyscrapers and causing residents to wear face masks, as cities along the US East Coast issued air quality alerts.  The thick haze enveloped the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, which would normally be sparkling under bright, blue early summer skies.

America's financial capital and much of New York State were subject to an air quality health advisory alert that was in effect until Wednesday night. Warnings were also in place in the US capital Washington. Scientists say warming temperatures increase the risk of the hot, dry weather that often fans wildfires.