Mid-Michigan’s air quality fell in the “moderate” category on the air quality index to start the work week. Most of the thick wildfire smoke has left the region, though some lingers to still put sensitive groups at risk.
As of 9:40 a.m. on Monday, July 20, the Greater Lansing area had moderate air quality meaning the air is acceptable for health groups, however the wildfire smoke that lingers can still negatively impact those who are especially vulnerable — children, seniors and those with pre-existing health issues.
Readings for Lansing on AirNow’s Air Quality Index (AQI) ranges from 51-100 which is a significant improvement from last week, which topped 400.
The smoke coming from active wildfires in Ontario, Canada, and northern Minnesota has polluted Michigan’s air since Wednesday, July 15.
Officials predict the smoke to gradually exit the state this week, though sensitive residents should still monitor for symptoms — including wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in nose, throat and eyes — and check the AQI readings before heading outdoors.
“Monday (July 20) looks to continue a trend of slow improvement across the state,” Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy said in its latest MiAir forecast. The smoke models are consistent with decreasing smoke concentrations although some smoke is still expected to linger. As such, we will maintain the lowest level of Alert (USG) throughout the state while expecting conditions to slowly improve.”
A statewide air quality alert remains in place for Monday, July 20.
Here’s more on the air quality index and a map of current conditions:
How bad is the air quality in Greater Lansing?
The map below displays the current air quality at monitoring sites in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Air monitoring sites are color-coded based on the pollutant (ozone or particulate matter) with the highest value. Particles that are less than 10 micrometers and 2.5 micrometers in diameter are called PM10 and PM2.5, respectively.
An AQI of 50 or below means the current air quality is good. The shaded areas of the map show the approximate boundaries where air quality is available and listed as anything other than good. The information is updated hourly.
What does ‘PM2.5’ mean on the air quality index?
On the AQI, particulate matter readings, labeled “PM2.5,” range from 0-301 or higher, and measure the fine particulate matter in the air, such as smoke, dust, soot or dirt.
The “2.5” figure means particles are 2.5 micrometers in diameter or smaller, according to the EPA — that is 30 times smaller than the average human hair, which is about 70 micrometers in diameter.
Air quality index: who belongs to a ‘sensitive group’?
“Sensitive groups” identify people who may be more at risk for breathing in polluted air than others.
According to the EPA, people who have respiratory problems (like asthma), heart or lung disease, diabetes, are a senior or child, or of a lower socioeconomic status are all considered within a sensitive group.
In addition, outdoor workers and pregnant people are within the sensitive groups based on Michigan’s Health and Human Services Department.
How can I stay updated on air quality in Lansing?
Michigan residents can check current conditions through EGLE’s MiAir Quality Index Dashboard. The interactive map provides AQI scores for cities across the state.
Residents can also use AirNow, a part of the U.S. Air Quality Index, and check local conditions by searching their ZIP Code or city. AccuWeather also has an AQI feature that lists the current pollutants in the air.
In addition, Michigan’s HHS Department has a Facebook and X account. The department allows residents to subscribe to alerts through the EnviroFlash system.
Contact Sarah Moore @ smoore@lsj.com
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Lansing sees near normal air quality as most wildfire smoke dissipates
Reporting by Sarah Moore, USA TODAY NETWORK / Lansing State Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Sarah Moore, USA TODAY NETWORK | USA TODAY Network
