Wildfire smoke hangs over Michigan today, July 15. Officials issued an air quality advisory for southeast Michigan, though the smoke is forecast to dissipate by the weekend.
“The next saga in Michigan Air Quality is the likelihood of elevated ozone in the Southeast Michigan counties during Tuesday. Temperatures will be near 90 under sunny skies, low wind speeds, and dew points in the mid 60s, which is ideal for ozone development,” said MiAir Division, a part of Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
On July 15, the air quality advisory is in place for these counties: Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw and Wayne counties.
As of 8 a.m., the air in the Upper Peninsula and northern- to-mid Michigan is acceptable, though it still can pose risks for sensitive groups.
“It is recommended that, when possible, you avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially those with heart disease and respiratory diseases like asthma,” the National Weather Service said. “Monitor for symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in nose, throat and eyes.”
The smoke is coming from 81 uncontrolled active wildfires in Canada across several provinces, including British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Smoke is expected to slowly move out of Michigan by the weekend.
“That front is expected to pass through Michigan, during Thursday, and provide a cool down and a pleasant start to the weekend,” MiAir Division said. “This forecast will be updated Friday morning, barring any unforeseen developments.”
Here is more on the air quality advisory in Michigan:
Where are the wildfires in Canada?
Based on Canada’s National Wildland Fire Situation Report (current as of July 9) there are 81 uncontrolled active fires; 49 being held; 116 controlled; and 90 modified responses.
The priority fires are located in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
What should I do when an air quality advisory is issued?
According to Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services, here are some indoor methods to protect yourself from the pollutants outside:
What is the air quality index?
The AQI shows the outdoor air quality for public health. It features six color-coded categories, from good (0-50) to hazardous (301 plus).
The AQI takes into account five air pollutants:
What does PM2.5 mean on the air quality index?
This unit is used to 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.
How can I check the air quality in my area?
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 for residents to subscribe for alerts through the EnviroFlash system.
Contact Sarah Moore @ smoore@lsj.com
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: What is the air quality in Michigan? Canadian wildfire smoke lingers, advisory in place
Reporting by Sarah Moore, Lansing State Journal / Lansing State Journal
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