ENVIRONMENT

Pennsylvania, Minnesota issue air alerts as wildfire smoke spreads

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Read, Watch or Listen

Wildfire smoke from more than 830 ongoing fires in Canada and several large blazes in Minnesota is driving dangerous air pollution across the U.S. Midwest and Northeast, affecting millions of residents. Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection has declared a statewide Code Red Air Quality Action Day for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) for Thursday, July 16, advising all residents to limit outdoor activity and warning sensitive groups to avoid prolonged exertion. Minnesota has an air quality alert in place from Tuesday through Friday, with hazardous levels expected in the northeast. Wisconsin has issued a statewide advisory from noon Tuesday through noon Thursday, July 16.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Earlier this year, severe drought conditions intensify regionally
Recently, Canadian wildfires surge past 830 blazes
Tuesday, Minnesota issues statewide air quality alert
Noon Tuesday, Wisconsin advisory period begins statewide
Tuesday through Friday, heavy smoke forecast northeastern Minnesota
Thursday July 16, Pennsylvania declares Code Red statewide
Noon Thursday July 16, Wisconsin advisory scheduled to expire
This week, millions experience hazardous fine particulate pollution

Why This Matters to You

Wildfire smoke can harm your health, especially if you have heart or lung disease. It's full of fine particles (PM2.5) that can get deep into your lungs. If you're in Pennsylvania, Minnesota, or Wisconsin, limit outdoor activities. Check local air quality reports regularly.

The Bottom Line

Wildfires are causing serious air pollution across the Midwest and Northeast. This isn't just a fire problem—it's a health problem. If you know someone with heart or lung issues, or who lives in these areas, it's worth forwarding this information to them.