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After a World Cup that has already seen multiple matches affected by thunderstorms and weather-related delays, concerns have now shifted to another potential disruption ahead of this weekend’s final.

Authorities in New York and New Jersey have issued an air quality health advisory due to smoke drifting south from Canadian wildfires, which has spread across the northeastern United States and parts of southern Canada.

The thick haze blanketing the region has raised health concerns for local residents and visitors in the lead-up to Sunday’s final, which will take place at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

On Thursday, the New York Office of Emergency Management reported that air quality levels in the city had reached “very unhealthy” levels. Officials have advised residents to limit time outdoors to no more than one hour at a stretch.

Spain arrived in New Jersey on Wednesday night, a day after their semi-final victory over France, and trained outdoors on Thursday without showing signs of discomfort from the smoky conditions. Argentina are set to begin their training sessions in New Jersey on Friday.

Although air quality has been poor through the latter half of the week, forecasts suggest an improvement from Friday onwards. Rain expected on Saturday is likely to help clear some of the lingering smoke from the atmosphere.

The final will be held in an open-air stadium, but meteorologists believe that weather conditions will have improved sufficiently by then to ensure the match proceeds without issue.

Despite the deteriorating air quality, a National Women’s Soccer League fixture between Gotham FC and Washington Spirit went ahead on Wednesday night in Queens. Players were required to take two additional breaks in each half as a precautionary measure.