Canadian wildfires are making it hazy, and their smoke is causing serious concerns for air quality across Michigan. As of July 31, 2025, the impact from these wildfires is being felt all over the state, with both weather experts and state officials issuing air quality advisories for every Michigan county.
The wildfires burning across provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan have produced a blanket of smoky haze, drifting into the United States and covering a broad swath of the Midwest. Michigan hasn’t been spared—communities from the Upper Peninsula to Metro Detroit have reported a strong haze, with air quality readings reaching worrying levels.
What’s the Air Quality Like in Michigan Today?
This week, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) issued a statewide Air Quality Advisory, stating that Michigan is experiencing the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” (Orange AQI) range. In some locations, the index has even hit “Unhealthy” (Red AQI) levels, meaning the risk extends beyond sensitive groups and can affect almost everyone.
Key highlights for today:
- Advisories remain in effect statewide until midnight.
- Some regions have among the worst air quality in the world.
- Visibility is down, and the sky looks distinctly hazy.
Who Should Be Concerned?
Health officials are especially urging caution if you fall into any of the following groups:
- People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma)
- Children and seniors
- Anyone with a history of respiratory issues
Symptoms to watch for:
- Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Tightness in the chest or palpitations
- Fatigue, dizziness, or a burning sensation in your eyes or throat
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to stay indoors and, if needed, call your healthcare provider.
What Should You Do?
Following these basic steps can help reduce your risk:
- Stay Inside: Limit outdoor activity, especially strenuous exercise.
- Keep Windows Closed: Run central air conditioning with high-efficiency (MERV-13 or higher) filters.
- Delay Lawn Care: Skip mowing or outdoor burning until the air improves.
- Monitor Local Alerts: Stay tuned to weather sources and official advisories.
The Broader Impact
- Michigan isn’t alone—Minnesota and Wisconsin are also under air quality alerts due to the same Canadian wildfire smoke.
- Even Toronto was ranked as having one of the worst air qualities globally today because of the massive wildfires.
- The cause? Persistent wildfires in Canada’s prairies, which have made this one of the most severe seasons on record, with ongoing risk expected to persist.
Note: “USG” stands for Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.
When Will It Get Better?
Forecasters say winds may begin to change direction by Friday, bringing some improvement in air quality. The haze and smoke should start to clear as the weekend sets in, but officials warn the risk could linger if fires continue to burn and winds shift again.
Quick Tips to Stay Safe
- Listen for local air quality updates
- Keep medications handy if you have asthma or other lung issues
- Call a doctor if you feel unwell
Canadian wildfires have made it hazy, and right now, it’s best to stay cautious and prioritize your health in Michigan. If you have thoughts on how the smoke is affecting your area, feel free to share your experience below—let’s keep the conversation going and help each other stay safe!