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Wildfire Smoke Blankets Northeast, Prompting Air Quality Alerts
3 Aug
Summary
- Smoke from Canadian wildfires triggers air quality alerts in several US states
- Fine particulate levels reach unhealthy or unhealthy for sensitive groups
- Officials advise residents, especially sensitive groups, to limit outdoor activity
As of August 3rd, 2025, smoke from Canadian wildfires has prompted air quality alerts across multiple US states in the Northeast and Midwest regions. The fine particulate (PM2.5) levels have reached unhealthy or unhealthy for sensitive groups, according to officials.
The affected states include Vermont, New York, Wisconsin, Michigan, New Hampshire, Maine, and Illinois. Cities such as Burlington, Montpelier, and St. Albans in Vermont are experiencing particularly poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) expected to reach Code Red, or Unhealthy for Everyone.
Health authorities are urging residents, especially those with asthma, heart conditions, or other respiratory issues, to limit strenuous outdoor activity and follow their treatment plans. The elderly, children, and individuals with preexisting respiratory problems are at the highest risk from the elevated particle pollution levels.
Authorities in the affected states, including the Vermont Department of Health, the NYS Department of Health, and the Wisconsin DNR, have advised sensitive groups to reduce outdoor exertion and seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms. The situation is expected to persist as the smoke plume continues to circulate in the region.
