Des Moines, Iowa – Smoke from Canadian wildfires is choking the air across Iowa today, with reduced visibility and hazardous breathing conditions expected to linger through 6 a.m. Thursday. Residents in eastern Iowa and parts of northwest Illinois could smell the smoke as it settles near the ground.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, an Air Quality Alert is in effect for all Iowa counties due to elevated levels of particulate matter from wildfire smoke. The worst conditions are expected in and around Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, and the Quad Cities, especially from late Wednesday morning through evening.
By 10 a.m., dense smoke was already sweeping into cities including Ottumwa and Waterloo. Cedar Rapids and Dubuque may see near-surface smoke levels peak by mid-afternoon, making outdoor activities potentially dangerous—especially for children, seniors, and those with respiratory issues.
Motorists may encounter reduced visibility along I-80, U.S. Highway 151, and other east-west routes. Public health officials urge residents to limit outdoor time, run air purifiers if available, and use N95 masks when necessary.
This is the second time in two weeks that wildfire smoke has impacted Iowa air quality.
The alert remains in effect through early Thursday morning, and additional advisories could follow if smoke lingers.
