Milwaukee, WI — Thick smoke from Canadian wildfires is once again impacting parts of the Midwest and Northeast United States, bringing hazardous air conditions and triggering air quality advisories in several states as of Monday morning.
Air Quality Alerts Issued Across Multiple States
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), air quality alerts remain in place across parts of the Upper Midwest and Northeast, as persistent wildfire smoke drifts across the border.
“#Smoke from Canadian #wildfires is continuing to bring #AirQuality Alerts to parts of the Upper Midwest and Northeast today,” NOAA posted on social media.
The AirNow Fire and Smoke Map, maintained by U.S. government agencies, indicated unhealthy air quality in cities including:
- Milwaukee, WI
- Buffalo, NY
- Detroit, MI
Other locations such as Grand Rapids and Lansing, Michigan, as well as Cleveland, Ohio, were categorized as having air quality unhealthy for sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Hundreds of Wildfires Still Burning in Canada
The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) reported 743 active fires nationwide on Monday, with 298 listed as out of control. These fires continue to generate vast plumes of smoke that, carried by prevailing winds, descend across large portions of the U.S.
These smoke events have become increasingly common during the summer months, disrupting outdoor activities and prompting repeated air quality warnings throughout the region.
Health Guidance for Affected Areas
Public health officials are urging residents in impacted zones to take precautions, especially those with asthma, heart conditions, or other pre-existing health issues.
Recommendations include:
- Staying indoors with windows and doors closed
- Running air conditioners with clean filters
- Using N95 or KN95 masks if outdoor exposure is unavoidable
- Avoiding strenuous outdoor activities
Sensitive individuals are advised to monitor real-time updates.
Thunderstorms Possible Elsewhere
NOAA also noted a slight risk of severe thunderstorms in parts of the High Plains this afternoon, further complicating weather conditions in the central U.S.
Officials continue to monitor both the air quality impacts and severe weather developments, advising residents to remain alert through official channels.
Is the smoky air affecting your daily routine or health? Share your story or local conditions in the comments below at the BethelAdvocate.
