Canadian Wildfire Smoke Triggers U.S. Air Quality Alerts

Air Quality Alerts are in effect across a broad swath of the Upper Midwest, northeast, and northern New England, impacting many Americans as thick smoke from Canadian wildfires blankets the region. The worst of the air quality is found in the Great Lakes. A new wave of wildfire smoke is drifting southward from multiple blazes burning across the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba. These fires have been active throughout the summer, and this is not the first time their smoke has reached the U.S. This latest plume began sweeping into the Upper Midwest last Thursday and still lingers this week.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan, and the Northeast is in the "unhealthy" category. The "unhealthy" designation on the AQI scale indicates that the air quality is poor and may pose health risks, especially for sensitive groups. Here's a look at the air quality as of Monday afternoon.

People with preexisting conditions such as asthma or heart disease are especially vulnerable. Health officials recommend staying indoors, limiting physical activity, and using air purifiers if available. 

Conditions will gradually improve by Saturday as wind patterns shift and help disperse the smoke. Tune into WeatherNation TV for more details.