The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy announced a statewide Air Quality Alert for Wednesday, July 15. 

Smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to spread across the state. This will likely cause higher levels of air pollution which can be harmful to health.

EGLE stated that thick smoke from wildfires north of Minnesota will start reaching the Upper Peninsula overnight and then spread south across the Lower Peninsula during the day and into the evening Wednesday.

Dr. Youcheng Liu, who is with Wayne State University, said people should check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before going outside.

“Even moderate levels are a concern. But if the AQI goes above 100, it’s considered heavy pollution, which everyone should pay attention to.”

Health officials recommend that residents, especially children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other breathing problems, should avoid strenuous outdoor activities while the alert is in effect.

Liu explained that the main worry is the presence of PM2.5, tiny particles from wildfire smoke that can penetrate deep into the lungs and increase the chances of lung and heart problems.

To stay safe, Liu suggests limiting outdoor time, avoiding intense exercise outside, keeping windows and doors closed, using indoor air circulation instead of bringing in outdoor air, and running air purifiers if you have them. 

He says those who need to spend time outside should consider wearing a mask rated N95 or higher for better protection.

Michigan residents can check local air conditions on the EGLE MiAir Quality Index Dashboard, AirNow, weather apps that show AQI numbers, or by signing up for Michigan’s EnviroFlash alert system.