Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. – Residents across Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula should limit outdoor activity Wednesday as ozone pollution reaches potentially harmful levels for sensitive groups.
According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), an Air Quality Advisory has been issued for June 4. Elevated ozone levels are expected to reach the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category, particularly impacting those with respiratory conditions such as asthma.
The advisory covers Mackinac Island, Bois Blanc Island, and both eastern and western sections of Mackinac and Chippewa counties. Air quality is expected to worsen during the afternoon and early evening, when ozone concentrations typically peak.
Health officials recommend reducing strenuous outdoor activity and minimizing driving. Residents and businesses can help lower pollution by delaying errands, avoiding gasoline-powered lawn equipment, and switching to water-based paints or greener commuting options.
Though not as visible as wildfire smoke, ground-level ozone forms through heat and pollution, often on sunny, warm days like Wednesday. Sensitive populations—especially children, the elderly, and those with heart or lung conditions—are most at risk.
Conditions may improve by Thursday, but air quality alerts could extend if ozone levels remain elevated.
