Clearing smoke today, bright sunshine expected tomorrow
Residents of Southern Wisconsin are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts as the region continues to experience unhealthy air quality due to Canadian wildfire smoke. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued an air quality alert for all of southeast Wisconsin, with poor air quality and reduced visibility expected to persist into the upcoming week [1][2][3].
Smoke particles (PM2.5) are expected to remain concentrated near the surface, posing health risks especially to sensitive groups such as those with respiratory or heart conditions, children, and the elderly. The smoke is expected to thicken through Saturday afternoon and evening, particularly in central and east-central parts of the region [4].
However, there is some good news on the horizon. By Sunday, high pressure shifts east into Lower Michigan, bringing drier, clearer air to Southern Wisconsin. This means that on Sunday, residents can expect mostly sunny skies, making it a good day to get outside without worrying about smoke or humidity [5].
In the meantime, it's important for residents to take precautions to limit outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable populations. The smoke from the north and east is affecting Southern Wisconsin, reducing visibility to 5 to 7 miles and keeping air quality unhealthy for sensitive groups [6].
Temperatures will remain mild with highs in the 70s through Saturday, and southerly winds will bring warmer, more humid air to Southern Wisconsin starting early next week, with highs climbing into the mid- to upper 80s by midweek [7]. Scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms are also expected in Southern Wisconsin starting early next week [8].
Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on updates if they have outdoor plans in Southern Wisconsin starting early next week. As always, it's important to prioritise health and safety, and to follow the advice of local authorities and health officials [1].
References:
- Fox6now.com
- Wisconsin DNR
- AirNow.gov
- Weather.com
- Accuweather.com
- NWS Milwaukee
- Weather.gov
- Wisconsin State Climatology Office
Weather forecasting indicates that the unhealthy air quality due to Canadian wildfire smoke in Southern Wisconsin might improve by Sunday, bringing clearer skies and less smoke. However, residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities, especially sensitive groups, as the smoke persists through Saturday, reducing visibility and posing health risks.
