Caribou, Maine – Residents across northern and central Maine face unhealthy air quality through midnight Wednesday as smoke drives particle pollution into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range. The thickest plume stretches from Allagash and Madawaska to Dover-Foxcroft, with air already at concerning levels in the region Tuesday afternoon.
According to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, particle pollution is not expected to clear out until Thursday. The Air Quality Alert covers Aroostook, Penobscot, Piscataquis, and parts of Washington County. Smoke will keep particle pollution high, while ozone levels remain moderate along the coast.
Communities including Caribou, Presque Isle, Millinocket, Houlton, and Greenville should limit strenuous outdoor activity, especially for children, seniors, and anyone with asthma or heart conditions. If you notice coughing, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath, the state urges you to reduce time outside and consider moving activities indoors.
The Bureau of Air Quality recommends checking local conditions via Maine’s air quality hotline (1-800-223-1196) or the DEP website. Keep windows closed, use air purifiers if available, and avoid heavy outdoor work until conditions improve. These smoke-driven air quality events are becoming more frequent during Maine summers, underscoring the need for up-to-date alerts.
The current Air Quality Alert remains in effect until midnight Wednesday, with improvements likely Thursday. Further advisories may be issued if smoke persists.
