DNR: Low air quality ‘most significant impact of the season’

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Wisconsin Department of Health Services say that the air quality in the state is the worst it has been all year this week.

According to the DNR’s air quality index, the air in Wisconsin Tuesday is unhealthy, particularly in heavily-populated areas like Milwaukee and Madison.

On Monday, the DNR issued an air quality advisory for the entire state through noon Thursday, calling the situation “dynamic” and giving health tips on dealing with low air quality. The air quality issues are due to wildfire smoke coming down from Canada.

The DNR said that the worst air quality conditions would be from noon Tuesday through noon Wednesday. The department also warned that this would be the “most significant impact of the season across all of Wisconsin” as air quality index values shot up into the 200-level, which is unhealthy for everyone.

REMINDER: The DNR has issued a statewide multi-day air quality advisory due to another round of smoke from Canadian wildfires. The current advisory is in effect through noon on Thursday, 6/29. (1/5) pic.twitter.com/iISBCsas9t

— Wisconsin DNR (@WDNR) June 27, 2023

Recommendations from the DHS include reducing time spent outdoors, especially for activities, and that if you are experiencing symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath, to take a break or move indoors. Children and people with certain medical conditions are more prone to health issues and should consider keeping all activities indoors. The DHS also recommends wearing a mask outdoors to help filter the particles in the air.

You can learn more about air quality and how the DNR tracks it on the DNR’s website.