Alert Issued as Millions Told to Avoid Going Outside
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Millions of people across Wisconsin were urged to avoid going outside on Thursday and Friday morning as air quality levels became "very unhealthy."
Why it Matters
The Wisconsin DNR has issued a statewide air quality advisory, calling on millions of residents to limit outdoor activity as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to degrade air conditions across the state.
Elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) present a public health risk, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and those with heart or lung disease. The advisory highlights the continuing impact of severe wildfires beyond state borders, raising concerns about the frequency and health implications of such air quality events in Wisconsin and across the Midwest.
A Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) spokesperson told Newsweek that as of Thursday, the DNR has issued PM2.5 air quality alerts for 16 days this year, the most alerts in at least four years.
The alert follows a similar alert issued across the entire state of Michigan earlier this week that advised people to monitor themselves for symptoms such as coughing and dizziness.
What To Know
The Wisconsin DNR advised Wisconsinites on Thursday to remain indoors and reduce outdoor activities due to unhealthy air quality resulting from ongoing smoke drift from Canadian wildfires. Widespread levels of PM2.5—tiny airborne particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs—are expected to reach 'Unhealthy' and occasionally 'Very Unhealthy' categories across Wisconsin throughout Thursday.
Poor air quality is seen in Wisconsin.
Poor air quality is seen in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin DNR
The DNR further stated that conditions are likely to improve gradually on Friday, though PM2.5 concentrations may still remain at 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups' to 'Unhealthy' levels through the weekend.
The air quality advisory, initially set to expire at noon on Thursday, has been extended statewide until noon on Friday, with day-to-day reassessments planned for further updates.
The DNR has emphasized precautions for individuals most at risk, including those with underlying health conditions, older adults, and children. Recommendations include shortening and reducing the intensity of outdoor activities, moving events indoors where possible, and minimizing exertion outdoors.
The advisory also provides a list of actionable steps to protect the public from wildfire smoke, including staying indoors with doors and windows closed; avoiding activities that can cause indoor air pollution, such as vacuuming and burning candles; installing a high-efficiency air filter in HVAC systems; and using an N95 mask outdoors if prolonged exposure cannot be avoided.
What People Are Saying
Wisconsin DNR in an air quality alert: "People with heart or lung disease, older adults and children should consider making outdoor activities shorter and less intense and reducing heavy exertion. Consider rescheduling or moving events indoors."
The alert added: "Air quality advisories are expected to continue through the summer as wildfires continue to occur. The DNR asks the public to stay vigilant as advisories are issued."
What Happens Next
Officials will reevaluate conditions daily and issue updated advisories as needed. The agency asked the public to remain vigilant for new announcements and to adopt recommended precautions during extended periods of unhealthy air.
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