Marquette, Mich. – Much of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula faces smoky skies and hazardous breathing conditions through Tuesday, as fine particulate pollution from Canadian wildfires continues to linger across the region.
According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), an Air Quality Advisory remains in effect through Tuesday, June 3, for elevated levels of PM2.5—microscopic particles that can worsen respiratory conditions. Air quality is currently in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category, especially affecting those with asthma, heart disease, or other lung conditions.
The advisory spans Menominee, Marquette, Houghton, Luce, Chippewa, Mackinac, and Delta counties, including Keweenaw Peninsula, Mackinac Island, and the Sault Ste. Marie region. Residents are urged to limit outdoor exertion, particularly children, seniors, and individuals with pre-existing health issues.
Health officials recommend keeping windows closed overnight, running air conditioning with high-efficiency filters (MERV-13 or higher), and reducing outdoor burning and wood stove use. Watch for symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, or eye irritation.
Conditions are expected to improve midweek, but additional advisories are possible depending on fire activity and shifting wind patterns.
