Canadian wildfires are so 'out of control' the smoke could affect air quality as far as New York City

• Canadian wildfires in Nova Scotia have forced thousands of people to leave their homes.

• Officials said the wildfires have so far destroyed about 25,000 acres of land, CNN reported.

• The smoke could potentially drift to Boston, New York, and Philly, affecting air quality.

Uncontrolled wildfires have forced thousands of people in eastern Canada to flee their homes. The fires, which began late last week, have sent thick plumes of smoke into the air, which could affect cities as far away as New York and Philadelphia.

Officials said the "out of control" flames have so far destroyed more than 25,000 acres in Nova Scotia, CNN reported, forcing more than 16,000 people out of their homes in the region around Halifax.

CNN also reported that, according to officials, about 200 structures, including homes, have so far been damaged.

The fire started on Friday near Upper Tantallon, a suburban community outside of Halifax, The Associated Press reported. As of Monday, hundreds of fire officials were working to fight the flames, the report said.

A video of the fire obtained by the BBC shows a car traveling through thick smoke on the highway in Hammonds Plains. Flames can be seen on the side of the road. "Don't be afraid, don't worry," a person can be heard saying in the clip.

According to the National Weather Service of New York, smoke from Canadian wildfires could reach as far as New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, potentially causing "decreased air quality."

"The wildfire situation in Nova Scotia is incredibly serious — and we stand ready to provide any federal support and assistance needed," Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted on Monday. "We're keeping everyone affected in our thoughts, and we're thanking those who are working hard to keep people safe."

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