Air Quality Advisory Expires At Noon

MADISON, Wis. – Air quality has begun to improve throughout the state, however, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds the public that a PM2.5 Air Quality Advisory remains in effect until noon on Friday, June 30. Conditions due to wildfire smoke from Canada will continue to improve throughout the holiday weekend.

This is a dynamic situation and impact from smoke remains possible throughout summer as Canadian wildfires continue to burn. 

Over the last week, the DNR recorded particle pollution concentrations that surpassed all previous records. Tuesday, June 27, marked the first recorded "Very Unhealthy" Air Quality Index (AQI) in Milwaukee since monitoring began. Additionally, multiple “Very Unhealthy” AQI levels were recorded in Madison and Baraboo on Wednesday, June 28.

Should conditions worsen again, plan to protect yourself and your family by considering the following.

The best way to avoid wildfire smoke is to stay indoors. Be sure to:

• Close windows and doors.
• Run A/C on recirculate.
• Use an indoor air purifier.

If you must spend time outside during wildfire smoke events:

• Check air quality conditions before leaving the house and throughout the day.
• Avoid or limit exercising outdoors.
• Consider wearing an N-95 mask, especially if outdoors for an extended period.

Stay Informed

The DNR offers a variety of ways to stay up-to-date on the current air quality.

• The EPA utilizes corrected data from Air Quality sensors to fill in the spatial gaps between regulatory air monitors on their airnow.gov web map, which shows current fire and smoke.
• Download data and check current air quality conditions from the statewide regulatory air monitoring network.
• Download the free WisconsinAQM mobile app to receive air quality updates anywhere on a mobile device. Download in the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
• Sign up to receive air quality advisory notices by email or text.