Madison, WI – All of Wisconsin is under an Air Quality Alert this weekend due to dense smoke from Canadian wildfires. The smoke is pushing PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) to unhealthy levels, affecting air quality across the state.
Air Quality Alert Details
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued the alert, which begins at 12 a.m. Saturday and will last until 12 p.m. Monday. The PM2.5 levels are expected to reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) to Unhealthy across the state. Northern counties, including Douglas, Ashland, and Price, may experience Very Unhealthy conditions, especially overnight and early Saturday.
Smoke Moving Southeast
The wildfire smoke will gradually move southeast, impacting major cities like Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Kenosha by late Saturday. People with asthma, heart conditions, or other sensitive health conditions are urged to stay indoors, use air purifiers if possible, and avoid prolonged outdoor activity.
Impact on Other Areas
Although some relief is expected on Sunday, air quality will remain compromised across the state. Southwestern areas, including La Crosse and Prairie du Chien, may see lower PM2.5 concentrations, but they will still fall in the Moderate to USG range.
What You Need to Know
The air quality alert remains in effect until noon on Monday. Residents should stay informed by checking airquality.wi.gov for the latest updates and be cautious of the air quality in their area.
