Alan Longstreet reports that a statewide air quality alert will remain in effect across Michigan through Sunday due to persistent wildfire smoke.
Alan Longstreet reports that Michigan will maintain a statewide air quality alert through Sunday as smoke from Canadian and Minnesota wildfires continues to impact the region. While a wind shift on Friday provided temporary relief, a new wave of smoke is expected to arrive by Saturday. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy noted that while the smoke will be noticeable, pollution levels are expected to be less severe than the heavy conditions seen earlier in the week. On Sunday, the Upper Peninsula will see "Unhealthy" conditions, while the Lower Peninsula will remain "USG." The smoke originates from over 850 active wildfires across Canada and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota. These fires have created some of the worst air quality in the world this week. Residents in sensitive groups, including children and older adults, are advised to reduce prolonged outdoor exertion during the "Orange Warning" period, which lasts until Monday morning.