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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2025-07-31

Contact: DNR Office of Communications
DNRPress@wisconsin.gov

Wisconsinites: Limit Time Outside Due To Canadian Wildfire Smoke

Air Quality Advisory In Effect Through Noon Friday

hazy view of Lake Monona in Madison, Wisconsin The DNR is recommending Wisconsinites reduce their time outdoors due to ongoing air quality advisories resulting from Canadian wildfire smoke. Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is recommending Wisconsinites reduce their time outdoors Thursday, July 31 and into Friday, Aug. 1 due to ongoing air quality advisories resulting from Canadian wildfire smoke.

Canadian wildfire smoke will continue to impact Wisconsin's surface air quality over the next several days. Widespread Unhealthy levels of PM2.5 are expected across Wisconsin on Thursday, with values in the Very Unhealthy category possible. Conditions are expected to slowly improve beginning Friday; however, Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Unhealthy levels will remain possible through the weekend.

The current advisory in effect statewide until noon on Thursday, July 31 has been extended through noon on Friday, Aug. 1. Conditions will be reevaluated on a day-to-day basis through the weekend, including updates to the forecast and any associated air quality advisories.

People with heart or lung disease, older adults and children should consider making outdoor activities shorter and less intense and reducing heavy exertion. Consider rescheduling or moving events indoors.

Protect Yourself From Wildfire Smoke

Air quality advisories are expected to continue through the summer as wildfires continue to occur. The DNR asks the public to stay vigilant as advisories are issued.