Air quality advisories issued statewide due to smoke from Canadian wildfires -- What to know

DETROIT – Air quality advisories were issued for Friday into Saturday morning statewide due to the smoke from ongoing wildfires in Canada.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has issued air quality advisories for fine particulate levels statewide. The conditions may be unhealthy for sensitive groups, and there is a chance that hourly levels could reach the unhealthy range for a short period of time.

The alert has been issued dude to wildfire smoke. It is in effect through 6 a.m. Saturday, May 31. During that time, the National Weather Service is recommending that nearly all residents limit prolonged outdoor exertion, keep windows closed and to use air conditioners with filters if possible.

Related: Canadian wildfires significantly impact Detroit’s air quality, report finds

You can track air quality based on smoke and wildfires in the area here.

What to know -- Air Quality Index

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a color-coded tool used to indicate air pollution levels, with higher values indicating poorer air quality.

Currently, the AQI for particulate matter (PM) is elevated in Michigan and the eastern U.S. due to smoke from fires in the U.S. and Canada. The AQI is applicable to several major pollutants, including ground-level ozone and particulates.

Difference between advisory and alert

An advisory is issued when multiple air quality monitors are expected to reach or exceed the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) threshold, marked by an Orange AQI.

The advisory aims to raise awareness among sensitive individuals to USG Fine Particulate (PM2.5) levels and encourages actions to reduce pollution for the wider community.

An alert is issued when multiple monitors are predicted to reach or exceed the Unhealthy threshold, covering the Red (unhealthy), Purple (very unhealthy) and Maroon (hazardous) AQI levels.

Its purpose is to increase awareness as all health groups may be impacted and should take protective measures.

How to stay safe

The EnviroFlash system allows users to subscribe for alerts by selecting specific areas of interest. Alerts are sent directly to subscribers via email or text message. You can sign up here.

Residents are advised to monitor air quality and adjust physical activity levels during smoke events due to potential health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as those with heart or lung conditions, older adults, children, teens, pregnant individuals, and outdoor workers. It’s crucial to check local regulations before burning and to prioritize safety when engaging in outdoor recreational activities.

For more tips on burning and fire safety, visit the DNR’s Fire Management webpage.