Unhealthy Air, Hazy Skies Hit Northern US Due to Canada's Wildfire Smoke

Hazy skies and unhealthy air are likely in the Northern U.S., causing potential health effects, according to a weather report.

Last year, the wildfires unleashed poor air quality in parts of the Northeast and the U.S. With the impact on air quality, the vulnerable populations are people with medical conditions, children, older adults, and outdoor workers.

As a result, checking the air quality and road conditions could occur in the northern U.S. When the outlook becomes challenging, it is advisable to stay at home, until the unhealthy air abates.

Wildfire concerns and poor air quality this week

Zoom Earth Satellite via NOAA – NESDIS. The latest report shows that poor air quality reached parts of northern U.S due to wildfire smoke. Prolonged exposure to unhealthy air could lead to health concerns, particularly for people with medical conditions and older adults. (Photo : Zoom Earth Satellite via NOAA – NESDIS)

A weather report published on May 14 reported that central and southern Canada experienced raging wildfires, particularly in areas in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.

Due to the fire activity, residents could encounter reduced air quality and lower visibility. However, the upper-level winds helped to bring the wildfire smoke to the Upper Midwest and northern Plains.

Poor air quality could affect people’s health, especially vulnerable populations. Wearing face masks, like N95, could lower the risk of exposure to harmful pollutants. Nevertheless, limiting outdoor plans is the best option if activities are not essential.

According to a news report, reduced air quality was reported in Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Sioux Falls, Omaha, Wichita, and Winnipeg. Areas in southern Wisconsin, Kansas, and Nebraska also experienced the effects of wildfire smoke.

From midweek until the weekend, haze conditions could unload in Corpus Christi, Houston, New Orleans, Mobile, Tampa, Veracruz, and Mobile.

Additionally, homeowners should stay alert to changing weather conditions, which could influence potential wildfire risks, particularly in dry or warm areas.

In Kansas City, the latest weather forecast reveals scattered showers and isolated storms could unfold this week. On Wednesday, residents can notice a brief dry weather outlook, with strong winds reaching up to 50 mph.

Omaha residents may have a dry outlook this week. However, the threat of severe thunderstorms could return on Wednesday. There is a 5% to 15% chance of becoming severe.

Also Read: Gulf Coast Forecast: Heavy Rains, Severe Thunderstorms Likely This Week Due to Unsettled Weather

Southern US Weather Outlook

While some parts of the U.S. could experience potentially poor air quality, the latest weather forecast warns of flooding risks in the southern portions this week. Commuters can likely suffer from heavy rains and hazardous travel.

Areas in northeastern Texas and northern Florida could experience flooding and rain concerns. Residents living in low-lying communities are at risk of serious to severe flooding.

In the late week, potential rounds of downpours could unload in Oklahoma City, Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, Jackson, New Orleans, Little Rock, Montgomery, and Atlanta.