Lansing, Mich. – Much of Michigan is under an air quality advisory through 6 a.m. Saturday as wildfire smoke drifts in from Canada, raising health risks across the state.
According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from wildfires in Manitoba and Saskatchewan has pushed air quality into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. Nearly every county in Michigan — from Berrien to Alpena — is affected.
Sensitive populations, including those with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions, are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Residents may notice symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, or throat irritation.
Cities impacted include Detroit, Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Kalamazoo, and Flint. The smoke is expected to reach ground level by Friday afternoon and persist into early Saturday as a cold front drives it deeper into the region. Hourly pollution levels could briefly spike into the “Unhealthy” range in some areas.
Officials recommend closing windows overnight, using central air with high-rated filters, and avoiding activities like wood burning or outdoor fires.
Air quality alerts may be extended depending on Saturday morning conditions. For real-time updates, visit AirNow.gov.
