Fort Wayne, Ind. – Smoke drifting from wildfires in Canada will blanket much of northern Indiana through Friday evening, triggering air quality alerts and raising health concerns for vulnerable residents from Gary to Fort Wayne.
According to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, PM2.5 levels—fine particulate pollution—have risen to “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” in 25 counties, including Allen, LaPorte, St. Joseph, Elkhart, and Pulaski. The Air Quality Action Day remains in effect through 8 p.m. Friday.
Communities such as South Bend, Warsaw, and Marion may notice haze, reduced visibility, and a burning smell. Health officials urge children, seniors, and people with asthma or heart conditions to limit prolonged outdoor activity.
Residents are encouraged to reduce air pollution by avoiding drive-thrus, delaying fuel and lawn equipment use until after 7 p.m., and conserving electricity. Keep windows closed overnight and use high-efficiency filters if running central air.
This is Indiana’s second air alert this season tied to Canadian wildfire smoke, with similar conditions recorded in June 2023. Officials say additional advisories could be issued if smoke concentrations persist.
Air quality information is updated hourly at airnow.gov and SmogWatch.IN.gov.
