GREEN BAY, Wisconsin – A statewide air quality advisory has been issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), set to take effect Saturday, July 12, and remain in place through noon on Monday, July 14. The warning comes as smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to drift across Wisconsin, significantly degrading air quality in many areas.
In a news release Friday, the DNR said the Air Quality Index (AQI) is projected to reach levels considered Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, and in some parts of the state, it may even climb into the Unhealthy category. Residents in northern Wisconsin are likely to bear the brunt of the smoke, with very unhealthy conditions possible at times, particularly over the weekend.
The smoke is forecast to move in from the northwest, arriving just after midnight Friday night, and spreading southeast through the day on Saturday. By Saturday afternoon, much of central Wisconsin is expected to be affected, with southeastern counties, including parts of Milwaukee, likely seeing impacts by late Saturday.
Officials say the thickest smoke will remain concentrated in the northern half of the state, though air quality will be compromised statewide. People in sensitive groups, including young children, older adults, and those with heart or lung conditions, are especially urged to limit time outdoors, avoid strenuous activities, or consider staying indoors altogether until conditions improve.
Real-time data and forecast details are available through the Wisconsin Air Quality Monitoring Data site.
