Air quality alerts have been issued for Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) expected to reach levels classified as Level 3—unhealthy for sensitive groups—and Level 4—unhealthy for all. These alerts signal that residents should limit strenuous outdoor activities, particularly those who suffer from heart disease and asthma. It is also advisable to keep windows closed to prevent smoke from entering homes and workplaces.
Significantly reduced air quality and visibility are anticipated on Friday in various regions. In Minnesota, areas including Duluth, Silver Bay, and Grand Marais are particularly at risk. In Michigan, cities like Houghton, Marquette, and Iron River are expected to experience similar conditions. In Wisconsin, residents in Ashland, Wausau, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee should prepare for potential air quality issues as well.
According to meteorological forecasts, winds blowing from north to south will carry wildfire smoke from Canada into the United States over the coming days. On Friday, smoke is expected to spread from the northern Plains into the Midwest, affecting states like Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. The highest concentrations of smoke will likely be near the Great Lakes.
The smoke will continue to travel, with light to moderate conditions predicted to extend from the Plains to the East Coast on Saturday. The heaviest smoke is expected to linger in the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Iowa. By late morning or afternoon, it is possible that smoke could reach the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, although it remains uncertain if it will significantly affect air quality in those regions.
In June 2023, smoke from Canadian wildfires in Quebec enveloped the East Coast, leading to surreal Mars-like scenes. However, the current situation involves fires located approximately 1,500 miles away from Washington, D.C., in central Manitoba, reducing the likelihood of a repeat of the severe air quality issues experienced earlier this year.
Looking ahead, smoke may continue to drift southward across central and eastern states into Sunday. However, shifting winds early next week could provide some relief. Notably, the smoke could extend as far east as Newfoundland, Canada, and may impact regions like the Azores, Ireland, and Britain on Saturday, with potential reach to Norway by early Sunday.
