Welcome to the Daily Briefing. Start with these reads:
Nicole Fallert here, bringing you the news to know on Thursday.
Millions of Americans are under air quality alerts Thursday, with officials warning that smoke could reach unhealthy levels in several major cities.
The hazy skies you may see today are due to more than 830 wildfires burning across Canada, with over 100 considered out of control. Smoke from the blazes in northwestern Ontario and neighboring regions is spreading into parts of the Midwest and Northeast.
🔥Stay safe: Track wildfires and wildfire smoke near you.
Take a look
The 2026 ESPYS – ESPN’s annual sports awards show – merged Hollywood and athletics last night at New York City’s Lincoln Center. Best record-breaking performance went to Myles Garrett, whose girlfriend, Olympic medalist Chloe Kim, presented him with the award.
Money
Inflation is complicated. Prices can be down for the month, as they were in June, but up for the year. A falling inflation rate doesn’t necessarily equate to falling prices. And consumers mostly care about the price they’re paying at the supermarket right now.
Have feedback on the Daily Briefing? Shoot Nicole an email at NFallert@usatoday.com.