Air Quality Alerts Persist Across Michigan, Minnesota Due to Widespread Wildfire Smoke

Western and Northern Michigan, along with Minnesota, are experiencing ongoing air quality alerts due to wildfire smoke drifting from Canada, causing hazardous haze and unhealthy air conditions. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has extended air quality alerts through Saturday, with a strong possibility of further extensions into Sunday as smoke concentrations reach unhealthy levels, especially for sensitive groups such as those with heart or respiratory issues. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, keep windows closed, use air conditioning with high-efficiency filters, and avoid activities that worsen pollution, like outdoor burning. Despite the poor air quality, the region is forecasted to have mostly dry and warm weather with highs ranging from the upper 70s to low 90s over the coming week. Minnesota is under a similar alert with unhealthy air for all residents, urging caution especially for vulnerable populations. Overall, while the weather remains seasonable and dry, the lingering smoke haze is expected to impact outdoor visibility and health until clearer skies return.