Wildfire smoke drifting south from Canada has blanketed large parts of the north-eastern United States, raising concerns over air quality just as New Jersey prepares to host the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. FOX Weather correspondent Bob Van Dillen addressed the issue, noting the potential impact on players, fans and health in the area, at a time when FIFA and reportedly the White House are monitoring the situation ahead of the match.

Van Dillen told Fox News Digital that a cold front is expected to help clear the smoke from the greater New York City area by kickoff, offering some reassurance after days of hazy, smoke-affected skies. The poor air quality had already prompted concern among athletes in the region, with Major League Baseball players from the Mets and Phillies both expressing unease about competing in unhealthy conditions, while Spain's squad had been pictured training through the smoky haze in New Jersey.