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A series of Canadian wildfires that sprang out during the weekend impacted 18 U.S. states. They also threatened to derail the biggest sporting spectacle in this year's calendar, the World Cup final.
Air quality conditions in and around New York City proved dangerous for sensitive groups on Friday and Saturday night, leading many to stay inside the house.
That wasn't the case for Argentina and Spain, who were forced to train in unsafe conditions in the days leading up to the final.
Here's a look at the impact the wildfires could have on Sunday's match.
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Will Canada wildfire smoke impact World Cup?
Wildfires scorched Canada's lush landscape, bringing about unhealthy air quality readings in dozens of U.S. cities, including East Rutherford, New Jersey, the site of Sunday's World Cup final.
The World Heath Organization forecast called for an improvement in air quality conditions on Sunday afternoon, with readings expected to improve to "moderate" levels, per IQAir.
Spain and Argentina trained in hazardous conditions on Thursday. Authorities are reportedly monitoring the situation, according to ABC News. However, there doesn't appear to be plans to change the venue or date for the World Cup final.
World Cup smoke forecast for Sunday, July 19
Smoke is expected to clear by the time the match rolls around at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday.
Thunderstorms are expected to wash over the tri-state area on Saturday afternoon and evening, which could bring about flash flooding.
However, the forecast for Sunday's game should prove steady, with temperatures expected to climb into the mid-80s at kickoff.
Air quality index for New York City
New York City's air quality index is expected to drop precipitously in the hours leading up to the game. Per IQAir, the AQI will drop to 62 on Sunday, far more comfortable than the 152 the city flaunted one day earlier.
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What time is the World Cup final?
The World Cup final will kick off at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday afternoon. The match will take longer than most to complete; a 30-minute halftime break will extend the fixture's runtime.
Where is the World Cup final being played?
The World Cup final will be contested at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on Sunday afternoon. The venue typically houses NFL sides the New York Jets and New York Giants. However, it has proven one of this year's World Cup's most popular colosseums, hosting seven matches thus far.
Canadian wildfire smoke map
Here's a look at the Canadian wildfire smoke map, provided by FireSmoke.ca.
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