Canada’s Wildfires Cause Poor Air Quality Across the U.S.

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (AP) — Smoke from devastating wildfires in Canada continued to create hazardous air quality in parts of the Midwest on June 5, 2025. Areas in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan reported “very unhealthy” conditions due to the smoke drifting south of the border.

Over 27,000 residents have evacuated in Canada due to the fires, adding to the growing crisis as temperatures rise. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issued alerts across the state, particularly affecting the Twin Cities area, which experienced a significant spike in particulate pollution.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, certain regions faced Air Quality Index (AQI) levels above 250, marking severe pollution levels. Portions of nine states encountered smoke as it moved across the region, reaching as far as Iowa and Nebraska.

“As the smoke continues to move across the state, air quality will slowly improve from northwest to southeast for the remainder of the alert area,” the agency forecasted. However, many residents are advised to stay indoors, particularly individuals with heart and lung diseases, as conditions could remain unhealthy.

The ongoing fires have led to at least two deaths and massive evacuations, particularly in Manitoba where more than 17,000 people have been displaced. Saskatchewan has also felt the impact, with thousands forced to flee and emergency services stretched thin.

Dr. Rachel Strykowski of Hennepin Healthcare noted an increase in respiratory issues, highlighting the risks posed by fine particulate matter found in wildfire smoke. “Fine particulate matter from the smoke triggers more inflammation in patients’ airways, aggravating their underlying medical conditions,” she explained.

The wildfires have not only impacted North America but have also generated smoke that traveled across the Atlantic, reaching parts of Europe. Copernicus, the European climate service, stated that significant plumes of smoke from these Canadian fires are now affecting weather patterns and air quality abroad.

As the summer progresses, experts warn that air quality issues may persist due to ongoing risk from wildfires.