Madison, Wis. – Canadian wildfire smoke is blanketing Wisconsin, triggering a statewide air quality advisory through noon Thursday, with pollution levels reaching unhealthy thresholds in many areas.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, fine particle pollution (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke is expected to push air quality into the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (Orange) and Unhealthy (Red) categories across all 72 counties. NowCast AQI readings may even touch Very Unhealthy (Purple) levels in some areas.
Air quality impacts first hit northern Wisconsin early Tuesday and are moving steadily southward. By Wednesday midday, smoke is expected to cover most of the state, including major cities like Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and La Crosse.
Those with asthma, heart disease, or other sensitivities are advised to stay indoors, limit exertion, and keep medications handy. Schools, daycare centers, and outdoor workers across Dane, Waukesha, Racine, and Rock Counties should monitor conditions closely and adjust schedules.
While a brief break in smoke may arrive Thursday afternoon, a second wave is forecast to return to northern Wisconsin by Friday. Residents should check local AQI readings regularly at airquality.wi.gov.
