Madison, Wis. – Smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to blanket Wisconsin Friday, sending air quality into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range across the state through 6 a.m. Saturday.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, elevated PM2.5 levels will spread southward throughout the day, impacting every region from Superior to Kenosha. Air Quality Index (AQI) readings could climb into the red “Unhealthy” zone in some areas, especially in the north and east.
The advisory includes all 72 counties, affecting major cities including Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, La Crosse, Eau Claire, and Wausau. The thickest smoke is likely during the afternoon and early evening hours as a cold front drives the haze deeper into southern and western counties.
Residents with heart or lung conditions—including asthma—are urged to limit prolonged outdoor activity. “Make outdoor activities shorter and less intense,” DNR officials advised. Those experiencing coughing, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue should seek medical attention.
The cold front will gradually clear northern skies Friday night, but air may remain stagnant in southern and western areas into Saturday morning. Another advisory could be issued if smoke persists.
For real-time updates, visit airquality.wi.gov.
