How Wildfire Smoke Is Impacting Air Quality In The Midwest

Air quality alerts were issued across 10 U.S. states on Thursday as wildfire smoke and pollution continue to impact large portions of the country. Wisconsin and several neighboring states are on high alert, with warnings in place for those most at risk.

Air Quality Alerts Just Hit 10 States

Canva

Get our free mobile app

The states on the list include Wisconsin, Minnesota, Indiana, and Ohio, all close to home. If you have asthma, a heart condition, or kids who like to play outside, pay attention: the air quality could be a lot more dangerous than it looks.

Why It's a Big Deal

Health specialists are sounding the alarm. Poor air quality can cause serious problems for seniors, children, and anyone with respiratory issues. Even healthy people may notice headaches, coughing, and fatigue when pollution levels spike. The EPA and other agencies are urging people to avoid prolonged outdoor activity, especially during peak alert hours.

Where the Alerts Are Active

At the time of writing, air alerts are active in parts of:

Wisconsin
Minnesota
Indiana
Ohio
Pennsylvania
New Jersey
New York
Maryland
Virginia
Montana

That's not just the West Coast anymore; the smoke is moving east, and fast.

What's Causing It?

Canva

Much of this is due to wildfire smoke drifting across multiple states, and AccuWeather predicts the haze could linger through August. Officials also recommend cutting back on things that worsen air pollution, like outdoor burning or unnecessary driving.

Stay Informed

Before heading outside, check real-time conditions at AirNow.gov or on your weather app. If the air smells like a campfire and your eyes are burning, it's probably not your imagination.

Newsweek.com has more.