Smoke from Canadian wildfires is currently affecting air quality across the Midwest and Great Plains, prompting alerts in multiple states. Over 90 uncontrolled fires are reported, particularly impacting Manitoba, which has led to evacuations of around 17,000 residents. High atmospheric winds carried smoke southeast, reaching areas as far as the Georgia-Florida border.
States like Minnesota and Wisconsin have issued air quality warnings. Minnesota’s alert covers the entire state, with some northern regions experiencing unhealthy air quality levels, as measured by the EPA’s Air Quality Index (AQI). Even those outside sensitive groups may face health issues such as itchy eyes and shortness of breath. Similarly, Wisconsin’s air quality advisory, initially set to expire, might be extended due to expected heavy smoke in the northwest.
In North Dakota, air quality has reached the “very unhealthy” threshold, prompting state officials to advise residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities. Measures to reduce smoke exposure include closing windows, using indoor air filters, and wearing N95 masks outside. South Dakota has also issued air quality alerts in some areas.
Wildfire smoke can travel substantial distances, posing health risks far from the fire’s origin. In 2023, smoke contributed to poor air quality and uniquely colored skies as far away as New York City, where studies indicated hazardous levels of fine particulate matter that can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease and lung cancer.
Amidst this environmental crisis, other severe weather events are occurring, with severe storms hitting the South and East Coast, and heat alerts in the West, where temperatures have exceeded 100 degrees.
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