Madison, Wis. – Southern Wisconsin will wake up to poor air quality Friday as wildfire smoke from Canada pushes into the region, prompting an advisory that lasts from 6 a.m. today through 6 a.m. Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, smoke will begin mixing to the surface by late morning or early afternoon Friday, causing conditions labeled “unhealthy for sensitive groups” across much of southern and central Wisconsin. The advisory affects cities including Madison, Milwaukee, Janesville, and La Crosse.
Counties shaded in orange on the air quality map—including Dane, Waukesha, Rock, and Jefferson—can expect elevated fine particle pollution, which may cause breathing issues. Western counties such as Grant and Vernon will see only moderate conditions, but caution is still advised.
People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and young children should limit outdoor time and avoid strenuous activity. Use indoor air filters if available and keep windows shut.
Air quality is expected to improve by early Saturday, but further smoke intrusions are possible. More advisories could follow, especially if winds shift or fires intensify. Stay updated through the Wisconsin DNR or NWS Milwaukee.
