MARQUETTE, Mich. – Thick smoke from Canadian wildfires will keep much of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula under an air quality advisory through noon Tuesday, with pollution levels reaching the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range.
According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) will remain elevated across all U.P. counties, from Keweenaw and Ontonagon to Mackinac Island and Chippewa. The haze is expected to persist as wildfire smoke continues drifting south from Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Residents, especially children, older adults, and those with asthma or heart conditions, are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Officials recommend keeping windows closed, running central air with high-grade filters, and limiting sources of indoor smoke such as wood stoves.
Drivers may also experience reduced visibility on rural highways, particularly in low-lying areas early in the morning. Health officials warn of symptoms like coughing, chest tightness, and burning eyes, urging anyone with worsening conditions to seek medical care.
The advisory remains in effect until at least midday Tuesday, though conditions could improve from west to east as winds shift. More updates will be issued if smoke concentrations remain high.
