MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — Extreme wildfires in Alberta, Canada, have impacted southeastern Wisconsin, bringing cloudy air, the smell of smoke and respiratory problems for vulnerable populations.
According to the Canadian government, wildfires in Alberta have burned 150 times more land than in the past five years combined at the same time of year.
Weather systems brought the smoke into Wisconsin, causing hazy skies, but on Friday, May 19, that meant there was smoke on the ground.
“Behind the front we often get food where the air falls down so a lot of the smoke that was airborne is pulled down to lower levels and we can then smell it on the surface.” Denny VanCleave, Meteorologist at the National Weather Service, told CBS 58.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has issued an air quality alert urging people with breathing problems to exercise caution.
“I have asthma, so I hold back a little more just to prevent flare-ups like this,” Froedtert Hospital respiratory therapist Sarah Bazelak said in an interview.
Bazelak said people with asthma, COPD and allergies should limit time outdoors to avoid exposure to smoke particles, which can lead to a flare-up of their condition.
“Instead of keeping the windows open because you don’t want them getting into your house, leave your air conditioner on and then try to sleep with it on,” Bazelak said. “It’s really important to make sure you keep track of your maintenance medication.
The NWS said the system is expected to be cleared early next week.
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