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Smoke from wildfires in Canada is spreading into Michigan, significantly impacting air quality in the Upper Peninsula and now extending into northwest Lower Michigan. On June 3, 2025, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) escalated the Air Quality Alert to a more severe level due to increasing smoke pollution.

The new alert categorizes the air quality as "unhealthy for all individuals" throughout the Upper Peninsula and in six counties of northwest Lower Michigan. This is a notable change from previous advisories, which only warned sensitive groups about potential health effects. The counties under the alert in Lower Michigan include Emmet, Cheboygan, Leelanau, Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Manistee.

The smoke contains tiny particles known as particulate matter (PM2.5), which measure 2.5 microns or smaller. These particles can infiltrate lungs, causing respiratory issues and discomfort. As a result, the DEQ recommends avoiding strenuous outdoor activities and taking precautions such as keeping windows closed and using high-efficiency air filters.

The alert is already active for the entire Upper Peninsula and will extend to northwest Lower Michigan, including the Traverse City area, starting Wednesday. Signs of exposure could include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, and irritation of the nose, throat, and eyes.

Meteorologists predict that the dense smoke could linger for several more days, making it difficult to ascertain when air quality will improve. Residents are advised to closely monitor their health and follow DEQ guidelines to minimize exposure to the harmful particles.