La Crosse, WI – Air quality concerns are expected to continue across much of Wisconsin and southeast Minnesota through Thursday as smoke from Canadian wildfires moves into the Upper Midwest, according to the National Weather Service.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, wildfire smoke originating from northeastern Minnesota and Ontario is increasing concentrations of fine particulate matter, leading to Air Quality Alerts across large portions of Wisconsin and parts of southeast Minnesota.
Forecasters said the smoke is expected to create unhealthy air quality, particularly for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, young children, older adults, and anyone participating in prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity.
Air Quality Alerts are in effect across much of Wisconsin through Thursday, with some counties expected to experience air quality in the Unhealthy category, while others may reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.
Officials recommend limiting or avoiding extended outdoor activities whenever possible. Residents are also encouraged to stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and use air conditioning or air filtration systems if available to reduce smoke exposure.
The smoky conditions are arriving as much of the region also experiences warm and humid weather, increasing the potential for heat-related stress among those spending time outdoors.
The National Weather Service advises residents to monitor local air quality forecasts and follow updates from state environmental agencies as smoke concentrations may change depending on wind direction and weather patterns.
