Millions Could Be Exposed to Dangerous Wildfire Smoke This Week. How to Check Your Air Quality
Wildfires are currently burning in Minnesota and Canada, according to AP News, and could expose millions of people in the Midwest and Northeast US to dangerous levels of air pollution. Minnesota officials have warned residents that large wildfires could burn for months, exacerbated by heat and drought conditions.
Wildfire season typically occurs during the summer and fall, peaking from early July to early September. In addition to destroying everything in its path, a wildfire releases a mixture of pollutants that can affect communities thousands of miles away.
A wildfire isn't the only thing that can impact outdoor air quality. According to the American Lung Association, power plants, fuel-burning transportation, climate change, other natural disasters and emissions from powering our homes and industrial operations all play a part.
As of 2026, the ALA reportsthat 44% of Americans (152.3 million people) live in areas with unhealthy air pollution...
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