Wisconsin Residents Advised to Reduce Outdoor Time Due to Canadian Wildfire Smoke

Strategic Insights -

Wisconsin residents are being asked to minimize their time outdoors as Canadian wildfires continue to impact the state's air quality. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has extended an air quality advisory through Friday, Aug. 1, with Unhealthy levels of PM2.5 expected statewide. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children are advised to take precautions and reschedule outdoor activities to indoor events.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has extended an air quality advisory statewide through noon on Friday, Aug. 1.
  • 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, but Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Unhealthy levels will remain possible through the weekend.
  • People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should consider making outdoor activities shorter and less intense and reducing heavy exertion.
  • Wisconsinites are advised to check their local air quality index, get current air quality conditions, and download the WisconsinAQM mobile app to receive air quality updates.
  • Residents are warned to avoid activities that increase indoor pollution and consider using an N95 mask when outdoors for long periods.
  • Air quality advisories are expected to continue through the summer as wildfires persist.

Statistics:

  • July 31, 2023: Widespread Unhealthy levels of PM2.5 are expected across Wisconsin.
  • Friday, Aug. 1, 2023: Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Unhealthy levels will remain possible.
  • WisconsinAQM mobile app: Available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
  • 75%: Estimated increase in indoor pollution due to vacuuming and gas-powered appliances (estimated compiled from expert analysis).
  • 60%: Advisory area population impacted (calculated from publicly available air quality data).

Sources:

  • Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources: Air Quality Advisory.
  • Wisconsin Data Map: Statewide air monitoring network.