Grand Rapids, Mich. – Unhealthy air is expected across parts of Michigan on July 4 as state officials warn of elevated ozone and smoke levels from fireworks and wildfire haze, especially in metro Detroit and lakeshore counties like Berrien, Muskegon, and Ottawa.
According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), an Air Quality Advisory is in effect Friday for much of western and southeastern Michigan. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast to reach the Orange range—classified as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups”—due to a combination of ozone buildup along Lake Michigan and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from residual wildfire smoke and holiday fireworks.
The advisory covers Allegan, Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa, Van Buren, and Berrien counties, as well as metro Detroit counties including Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, and Monroe. Sunshine, highs in the 80s, and stagnant winds will worsen air quality throughout the day.
Residents—especially those with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory issues—are urged to avoid outdoor exertion, limit driving, and delay gasoline-powered yard work. Overnight, keep windows closed and consider running air conditioners with HEPA or MERV-13 filters to reduce indoor smoke exposure.
Air quality alerts remain in effect through Friday night. More advisories could follow if weather and smoke conditions persist.
