Michigan Urged to Stay Indoors as Wildfire Smoke Spreads
If you live here in the state of Michigan, you're being urged to stay indoors and keep your windows shut, as there are deteriorating air quality conditions due to fires in Canada.
Where the Smoke is Coming From
The fires are taking place in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, which has drifted the fires down to Michigan, Minnesota, and a few other states.
Why It’s a Health Concern
The air quality alert sent out by Minnesota Pollution Control Agency reported fine particulate matter levels reaching an unhealthy, or very unhealthy category. The same alert was initiated here in the state of Michigan.
Those with respiratory issues, the elderly, and even children are being asked to limit their outdoor time right now.
How Far the Smoke Has Spread
The wildfires in Canada have already hit 1.1 hectares with some fires exceeding 300,000 hectares. The fires have prompted an evacuation in the Manitoba area, leaving 17,000 people out of their homes. The smoke has even traveled as far south as Florida at this time.
Pennsylvania's air quality for the time being remains unaffected, however, forecasts indicate that could change with the smoke coming from Canada.
What You Should Do
If you are a resident in any of the following states, you are being asked to:
- Stay indoors and keep your doors and windows shut
- Use air purifiers to maintain indoor air quality
- Limit your outdoor activities, especially if you are traveling with a vulnerable group
- Watch local air quality changes, and listen to public health warnings.