Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Canadian wildfire smoke is blanketing Wisconsin again, sending PM2.5 pollution into the “Unhealthy” range for most residents and triggering widespread air quality alerts through Friday.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, conditions are expected to worsen Thursday into Friday with dense smoke covering southeastern and central regions—including Milwaukee, Madison, Kenosha, and Waukesha. Sensitive groups—such as people with heart or lung disease, children, and the elderly—should avoid outdoor activity and remain indoors with filtered air.
Beachgoers are also facing dangerous conditions. A Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect for Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties until 1 PM CDT Friday, with life-threatening waves of 3 to 5 feet and strong currents expected along Lake Michigan. High swim risk is likely, especially near piers and breakwalls. Rip currents are possible.
Temperatures will climb back into the low 80s by Sunday with mostly sunny skies, but smoke may linger into early next week, keeping air quality concerns elevated. Residents should monitor conditions at airquality.wi.gov and limit outdoor exposure when alerts are active.
Additional advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.
🔎 Five-Day Forecast for Milwaukee, WI
- Friday: High 74°F – Sunny with areas of smoke. Air Quality Alert in effect.
- Saturday: High 80°F – Sunny, calm winds. Improved air quality likely.
- Sunday: High 80°F – Mostly sunny and pleasant. Light smoke possible.
- Monday: High 81°F – Mostly sunny. Slight haze possible from residual smoke.
- Tuesday: High 82°F – Mostly sunny with a slight chance of PM thunderstorms.
