Canadian wildfires impact US air quality

Canadian wildfires continue to grow, sending smoke across the Great Lakes region and impacting air quality in several US states. On July 15, 2026, air quality alerts were issued for northeast United States — Illinois and northwest United States — Indianapolis due to unhealthy ozone levels. The Air Quality Index reached 'Hazardous' levels in parts of United States — Minnesota, United States — Michigan, and United States — Wisconsin, with 'Unhealthy' readings in United States — Keene, New Hampshire and upstate New York. The United States — National Weather Service and United States — AirNow monitor the situation. Health risks include respiratory and cardiovascular effects, particularly for sensitive groups. The CDC and Yale Medicine provide guidance on health impacts and safety measures.