Smoky skies will continue to cover portions of the Central and Eastern United States this weekend, as massive fires in Canada continue to spread. An upper-level trough in the Northeast and Great Lakes is guiding the smoke from north to south, which will eventually bring the smoke as far south as the Gulf Coast.

Smoke Overhead

The forecast below shows where smoke will be visible overhead and doesn't necessarily indicate where air quality will be impacted. Think hazy sunrises and sunsets.

Near Surface Smoke / Air Quality Impacts

This model shows where smoke will be thick near the ground, indicating areas where air quality impacts are more likely. Minnesota is expecting more widespread impacts on the Air Quality front. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an Air Quality Alert for fine particle pollution. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to reach the Orange or Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category.

Air quality alerts have been issued in the Upper-Midwest, with additional alerts probable into early next week as thick smoke lingers in the region.Air quality on Sunday was impacted in the Upper-Midwest and the Ohio Valley. Be sure to monitor your air quality locally and limit time outdoors if it reaches levels that will affect your health. This won't be until the AQ reaches the "unhealthy" category for most people.

For the latest forecast in the Upper-Midwest, tune into the Central Regional Forecast at :30 past the hour, or stream it anytime with the WeatherNation app!