Gaylord, Michigan – A blanket of wildfire smoke continues to hang over northern Michigan, with state health officials extending the Air Quality Advisory through Saturday, August 2. Residents across over 30 counties—including Otsego, Emmet, and Cheboygan—should limit outdoor activity as pollutant levels remain in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range.
According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are expected to persist due to ongoing wildfire smoke drifting into the region. The advisory covers areas from Alpena and Roscommon to Mackinac Island and Charlevoix.
Residents with heart or lung conditions are strongly urged to avoid strenuous outdoor work or exercise. Symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, and burning eyes may worsen during peak smoke hours. Officials recommend keeping windows shut, running MERV-13 air filters, and limiting use of wood-burning stoves or outdoor fires.
Daytime conditions in Gaylord remain mostly sunny with highs near 80°F, but haze and patchy smoke are expected to linger through Saturday morning. Visibility may be reduced in rural areas overnight.
Air quality conditions are expected to improve Sunday. Until then, vulnerable groups should stay indoors and monitor updates via AirNow.gov.
