Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Smoky skies across southeast Wisconsin are keeping the air unsafe for sensitive groups through at least noon Wednesday, as wildfire smoke from Canada drives PM2.5 levels to unhealthy territory. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Air Quality Index has reached “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” across a broad stretch of the state, from Marquette and Green Lake to the Lake Michigan shoreline, including Milwaukee, Kenosha, and Racine.
The state’s advisory specifically warns those with asthma or heart conditions to take extra precautions, suggesting shorter, less strenuous outdoor activity and close monitoring of symptoms like coughing, fatigue, or shortness of breath. People living near Milwaukee, Sheboygan, Waukesha, and Fond du Lac should limit time outside if they notice any respiratory discomfort. Local schools and childcare centers may keep children indoors during recess, while anyone with heart disease should be ready to call a doctor if they notice unusual symptoms.
Drivers and commuters are urged to keep car windows closed and run air conditioning on recirculate. Residents should check local air quality updates before heading out, and keep quick-relief inhalers or other medications close by if they are prone to breathing issues.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve by midday Wednesday as PM2.5 levels decline, and further advisories are unlikely unless conditions change.
