Why Michigan Is Under an Air Quality Advisory Right Now

If the sky looks a little hazy today, you’re not imagining things. Some folks might think it’s just their eyes messing with them or maybe some weird weather. But the truth is, there’s a bigger reason Michigan’s air isn’t quite right right now.

It might feel a little like déjà vu. If you remember, we went through something similar but way worse back in 2023.

Yup, an air quality alert has been issued for the entire state of Michigan. And yeah, it’s for the very same reason as the one back in 2023.

See Also: The Worst Wildfire in MI's History Destroyed Over 2,500,000 Acres

Smoke from Canadian Wildfires Reaches Michigan

According to The Weather Channel, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has issued an Air Quality Advisory. It’s because of smoke drifting south from the massive wildfires burning in Manitoba, Canada.

It is recommended that, when possible, you avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially those with heart disease and respiratory diseases like asthma. Monitor for symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in nose, throat, and eyes.

When Does Michigan's Air Quality Advisory End?

The Air Quality Advisory is in effect from Friday, May 30, through 6 a.m. on Saturday, May 31.

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In 2023, the Canadian wildfires were so intense that at one point, the Mackinac Bridge was completely engulfed in a thick, smoky haze.

We’re not quite at that level right now, but who’s to say? ABC 12 reports that Manitoba and Saskatchewan have declared states of emergency, and much of Canada, from Alberta to Ontario, is at “extreme” wildfire risk, the highest level on Environment Canada’s scale.