The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has issued an air quality warning affecting several counties, including Adams, Buffalo, Clark, Crawford, Grant, Jackson, Juneau, La Crosse, Monroe, Richland, Taylor, Trempealeau, and Vernon. The air quality index (AQI) for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is anticipated to escalate into the Very Unhealthy (Purple) to Unhealthy (Red) categories statewide. This advisory will remain in effect until noon on Monday.
For those in sensitive groups facing a Very Unhealthy AQI, it is advised to refrain from any outdoor physical activities. Consider rescheduling such activities for when air quality improves or moving them indoors. Individuals with asthma are urged to adhere to their asthma management plans and to keep fast-acting medication readily available. Those with heart conditions should be vigilant for any symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, and should seek medical advice if these occur. The general public is encouraged to minimize outdoor physical exertion and to retreat indoors if they experience any symptoms.
In the case of an Unhealthy AQI, sensitive individuals should also contemplate moving activities indoors or postpone them until air quality improves. People with asthma should continue to follow their action plans and have quick-relief medications accessible. Anyone with heart issues should remain vigilant for adverse symptoms and contact healthcare providers if necessary. Lastly, the broader population should aim to limit the duration and intensity of outdoor activities and seek shelter if they notice any health symptoms.
The current conditions point to another wave of smoke originating from the north-northeast, expected to impact Wisconsin throughout Saturday, with effects persisting into Sunday. Most regions are predicted to experience an Unhealthy AQI, particularly in the northeast where Very Unhealthy levels may occur. Conversely, swaths of the southwestern region may only reach an Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (Orange) AQI. It is worth noting that this smoke may not reach the southwestern parts of the state until after sunset on Saturday, resulting in statewide air quality effects expected by 6 a.m. on Sunday. For the latest updates on air quality, visit: https://airquality.wi.gov.
