Listen to this article
Approximately 2 minutes
The audio version of this article was created using artificial intelligence technology. Pronunciation errors may occur. We work with our partners to continually analyze and improve results.
The game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cleveland Guardians scheduled for Friday night was postponed due to air quality concerns due to smoke from wildfires in Canada and northern Minnesota.
Heavy, acrid smoke from wildfires has darkened skies across the U.S. from the Great Lakes to parts of the East Coast, reducing visibility and prompting warnings that breathing outside air could be dangerous.
Authorities in many cities urged residents to stay inside or wear masks outside as air quality reached dangerous levels, meaning it is unhealthy for anyone, regardless of health status. The National Weather Service said a high-pressure system trapped the smoke close to the ground.
The air quality index was 203 when the game was postponed at 4:45 pm ET, which is considered very unhealthy and dangerous.
Northeast Ohio has had smoky and foggy skies for the past two days.
The split doubleheader is scheduled for Saturday, starting at 1:10 pm ET and 7:10 pm ET.
Thursday night’s game in Philadelphia between the Mets and Phillies has been moved to 6:10 p.m. ET from 7:10 p.m. It was the only game on the major league schedule after the All-Star break this week.