COLUMBUS, Ohio – Fans heading to college football games across Ohio Saturday may notice hazier skies as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts overhead, casting a muted sun at kickoff but adding fiery hues at sunset.
According to the National Weather Service, the smoke is high in the atmosphere and not expected to impact air quality. That means games in Columbus, Athens, and Toledo will play out without health risks, though the haze may be especially noticeable during afternoon tailgates.
The plume is spreading across much of the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, carried east by strong upper-level winds. Drivers leaving late games could experience increased glare at dusk when haze combines with the low sun, especially on I-71 and I-70 corridors.
Saturday crowds at Ohio Stadium and other venues can expect warm, humid conditions with highs near 90. The smoky skies may actually enhance the post-game view, with sunset colors deepening as the day ends.
Hazy conditions should last through Sunday before gradually clearing early next week.
