Des Moines, Iowa – Smoke from distant wildfires is blanketing nearly all of Iowa, triggering an air quality alert that will remain in effect through midnight Friday night. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources warns that smoky conditions could reach levels considered unhealthy for everyone—not just those in sensitive groups.
According to the Iowa DNR, moderate to heavy smoke will impact counties from Lyon and Sioux to Des Moines, Dubuque, and Lee. Air quality index values are expected to climb well into the “unhealthy” range, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Sensitive individuals—including those with asthma, COPD, heart disease, young children, the elderly, and outdoor workers—should limit time outdoors, avoid strenuous activities, and keep windows closed.
The smoke is also expected to affect travel along major highways, such as I-35, I-80, and US-20, with reduced visibility possible during heavier periods. Local school and summer camp organizers in Polk, Scott, Black Hawk, and Johnson counties are adjusting outdoor schedules. Residents are urged to use high-quality masks if outdoor work is unavoidable, and to run air purifiers indoors.
This is the most widespread summer smoke event Iowa has seen since the Canadian wildfires of 2023, with air quality alerts stretching from Sioux City and Cedar Rapids to Burlington and Council Bluffs. Air quality is expected to slowly improve Saturday, but new alerts are possible if smoke lingers.
