Meteorologists say thunderstorms moving through the US Northeast are expected to help clear or significantly reduce haze from Canadian wildfires before the World Cup final on Sunday. Multiple reports describe a plume of wildfire smoke that has been affecting parts of the region, with warnings of unhealthy air quality still in effect as of Saturday. Forecasters indicate that shifting weather patterns will sweep much of the smoke away from major population areas, including the New York City region, and that smoke is expected to mostly clear from the New Jersey area in time for the match. While the reports emphasize improved conditions around New Jersey before Sunday, they also note that unhealthy air quality warnings continue across a broad stretch of the United States, suggesting impacts may vary by location and timing. Overall, the coverage aligns on the main driver: thunderstorms are expected to change atmospheric conditions and move the smoke out of the area, improving air quality ahead of the event.