Smoke settles into area from Canada wildfires

Smoke from wildfires burning in Canada settled over much of eastern Wisconsin Wednesday, July 15, 2026, prompting the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to issue an Air Quality Advisory through at least noon Thursday. Officials say the advisory will likely be extended into Friday or even longer, depending on how long the wildfire smoke remains over the state.

Air quality is expected to reach the “Very Unhealthy” category for much of eastern Wisconsin, a level five out of six on the Air Quality Index chart. At that level, health officials say the risk of health effects increases for everyone, not just those with existing medical conditions. People with asthma, heart disease, lung disease, older adults, young children, and pregnant women are especially vulnerable.

Forecasters say there is still some uncertainty about how far southwest the thickest smoke will spread, but residents across east-central Wisconsin, including Fond du Lac County, should be prepared for hazy skies and the smell of smoke throughout the day.

The DNR recommends avoiding prolonged outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercise. If you need to be outside for an extended period and notice smoke affecting your breathing, consider moving activities indoors or wearing a properly fitted N95 mask.

Keep windows and doors closed and running air conditioning on recirculate can also help improve indoor air quality.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest air quality conditions and be prepared for the advisory to continue into Friday if the smoke lingers over the region.