DETROIT — Smoke from wildfires in Canada and Minnesota has blanketed Michigan, pushing air quality into unhealthy and hazardous ranges and prompting a statewide Air Quality Alert. Metro Detroit experienced some of the worst air quality readings in the world Thursday as fine particulate pollution settled near the ground.
The smoky haze has reduced visibility across Southeast Michigan and raised concerns about prolonged exposure. State officials are urging residents to limit time outdoors, keep windows closed, and avoid strenuous activity until conditions improve. Children, older adults, and people with heart or respiratory conditions face the greatest risks, though officials warn the smoke can affect anyone.
PODCAST:
July 16, 2026 ~ Canadian wildfire smoke has pushed Detroit’s air quality into hazardous territory, but what does that actually mean for your health? Dr. Shelley Schmidt of Corewell Health explains the risks, the warning signs to watch for, and the steps residents can take to protect themselves during one of the region’s worst air-quality events.
(CONTINUED) Dr. Shelley L. Schmidt, a board-certified pulmonary and critical care physician with Corewell Health, told 760 WJR’s Marie Osborne that the visible haze contains microscopic particles and chemicals produced by burning vegetation, structures, and other materials. “That thick fog is actually tiny particles of burnt wood, trees, grasslands, but also particles from structures and power lines, along with chemicals like sulfur and nitrogen oxides.”
Schmidt said common symptoms include throat irritation, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The pollutants can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, while some particles can enter the bloodstream. People with asthma, COPD, heart disease, heart rhythm disorders, and pregnant women may face increased health risks. She noted that the current air-quality levels are dangerous enough that “none of us are safe spending extended time outside today.”
Officials recommend staying indoors when possible, using air-conditioning systems on recirculation mode, and running HEPA air filters to improve indoor air quality. Residents who must spend time outside are encouraged to wear N95 or KN95 masks, which provide better protection against the fine particles carried in wildfire smoke.
Detroit officials also are urging residents to take precautions as air quality has reached hazardous levels in some parts of the city. Mayor Mary Sheffield said Detroiters should limit outdoor activities and use city respite centers if they need relief from the smoke and heat. The city also is offering free masks at select recreation centers and distributing them through the Detroit Department of Transportation and senior housing facilities.
