Canadian wildfire smoke prompts health warnings for Wood County residents

State extends air quality advisory through Friday noon

The DNR is recommending Wisconsinites reduce their time outdoors due to ongoing air quality advisories resulting from Canadian wildfire smoke.

Wisconsin DNR photo

Posted Thursday, July 31, 2025 2:43 pm

By Sirena Mankins
Editor

WOOD COUNTY — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources extended a statewide air quality advisory through noon Friday as Canadian wildfire smoke continues to blanket the region with hazardous particles.

The advisory, initially set to expire Thursday at noon, now covers Wood County and the rest of Wisconsin through Friday afternoon as widespread unhealthy levels of fine particulate matter are expected to persist.

"Canadian wildfire smoke will continue to impact Wisconsin's surface air quality over the next several days," the DNR said in a statement Thursday. "Widespread Unhealthy levels of PM2.5 are expected across Wisconsin on Thursday, with values in the Very Unhealthy category possible."

PM2.5 refers to fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers that can penetrate deep into lungs and enter the bloodstream.

The DNR recommends Wood County residents reduce outdoor time Thursday and Friday, particularly those with heart or lung disease, older adults and children. These groups should consider making outdoor activities shorter and less intense while avoiding heavy exertion.

"Consider rescheduling or moving events indoors," the agency advised.

Conditions are expected to slowly improve beginning Friday, though unhealthy air quality levels may persist through the weekend. The DNR will reevaluate conditions daily and issue updates as needed.

Residents can protect themselves by staying indoors, closing doors and windows, and avoiding activities that increase indoor pollution such as vacuuming, frying food or burning candles. The DNR also recommends installing high-efficiency air filters and using N95 masks when spending extended time outdoors.

Current air quality conditions are available through the Wisconsin Data Map on the DNR website. Residents can also download the free WisconsinAQM mobile app or sign up for email and text alerts about air quality advisories.

Air quality advisories are expected to continue throughout the summer as wildfires persist across Canada.