Overview

• Multiple states from the Dakotas through the Great Lakes and into Texas have declared air quality alerts as ozone and fine particle readings surge.
• Persistent northerly winds are transporting smoke from Saskatchewan and Manitoba fires into the US while high temperatures and stagnant air worsen pollution.
• Minnesota’s statewide Air Quality Alert and Michigan’s advisory extend through June 2, and Texas has issued Ozone Action Days for El Paso, Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston areas.
• Health officials urge residents, especially children, seniors and those with asthma or heart disease, to stay indoors, limit exertion and run air conditioners with high-efficiency filters.
• Canadian wildfires have burned over 1.58 million acres this season—about 40% above the decade average—and forced at least 17,000 evacuations.