Canadian wildfires are causing the worst air in the US in cities like Chicago and Detroit, canadian-wildfires-are-causing-the-worst-air-in-the-us -in-cities-like-chicago-and-detroit
The ongoing wildfires in Canada have resulted in poor air quality and hazy conditions in the Great Lakes region and parts of the central and eastern United States. The Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow.gov site indicated that areas in Illinois, lower Michigan, and southern Wisconsin had the worst air quality in the U.S., with Chicago, Detroit, and Milwaukee categorized as “very unhealthy.”
Minnesota experienced its 23rd air quality alert, obscuring the skylines of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Similar alerts were issued in Michigan and Wisconsin. Authorities in Chicago advised vulnerable individuals to stay indoors, and some day care centers and sports clubs adjusted their activities accordingly.
The smoke from the Canadian wildfires, combined with low pressure over the eastern Great Lakes, has caused reduced visibility and hazy skies in northern Michigan, southern Wisconsin, and Chicago. Meteorologists predict that the smoke will move further south into Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky.
Canada has witnessed record-breaking wildfires, with over 76,000 square kilometers (29,393 square miles) of land burned since the beginning of the year. Currently, there are 490 active fires, 255 of which are out of control. Despite recent rainfall in Quebec, the fires continue to rage, and officials hope the wet weather will provide an opportunity for firefighters to make progress.
The small particles present in wildfire smoke can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Health officials advise minimizing outdoor activities to reduce exposure to these particles. President Joe Biden highlighted the fires as a consequence of climate change, and experts predict that the warming planet will lead to more intense and smoky fires in the future.
Residents in affected areas, such as Chicago and Minnesota, express concern about the persistent smoke and its impact on their daily lives. The air quality alerts and reduced visibility restrict outdoor activities, leaving people feeling trapped indoors.
#WildfireHazards #AirQualityConcerns #GreatLakesRegion #ClimateChangeEffects #HealthWarnings”