Madison Reporter

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has advised residents across the state to limit outdoor activities due to poor air quality caused by smoke from Canadian wildfires. The advisory, which was initially set to expire at noon on Thursday, July 31, has now been extended through noon on Friday, August 1. The DNR stated that air quality conditions will be reassessed daily throughout the weekend.

According to the DNR, “Canadian wildfire smoke will continue to impact Wisconsin's surface air quality over the next several days. Widespread Unhealthy levels of PM2.5 are expected across Wisconsin on Thursday, with values in the Very Unhealthy category possible. Conditions are expected to slowly improve beginning Friday; however, Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Unhealthy levels will remain possible through the weekend.”

This means that fine particulate matter (PM2.5), a pollutant known for its potential health risks especially among vulnerable populations, is expected to reach unhealthy levels in many areas of Wisconsin. The agency recommends that people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children should consider making outdoor activities shorter and less intense and reducing heavy exertion. It also suggests rescheduling or moving events indoors when possible.

The current statewide advisory covers all counties and is part of ongoing efforts by the DNR to keep residents informed about air quality risks associated with wildfire smoke drifting south from Canada. Wildfires have become more frequent and severe in recent years, contributing to prolonged periods of degraded air quality across large parts of North America.

To help protect themselves from exposure during these advisories, Wisconsinites are encouraged by the DNR to take several steps:

- Check local air quality index reports regularly.

- Access up-to-date information using the statewide air monitoring network via the Wisconsin Data Map.

- Download the free WisconsinAQM mobile app from either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for real-time updates.

- Sign up for email or text notifications regarding new advisories.

In addition to limiting time outdoors, residents are advised to stay indoors as much as possible during periods of poor air quality. Other recommendations include closing doors and windows, avoiding activities that may increase indoor pollution such as vacuuming or frying food, installing high-efficiency air filters in homes, and wearing an N95 mask if spending extended time outside is unavoidable.

“Air quality advisories are expected to continue through the summer as wildfires continue to occur,” according to guidance from the DNR. “The DNR asks the public to stay vigilant as advisories are issued.”

With forecasts indicating continued wildfire activity in Canada throughout the season, officials emphasize that staying informed about changing conditions is important for minimizing health risks related to airborne particulates.