An Air Quality Alert has been issued by the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids for Clare, Isabella, Lake, Mecosta, Newaygo, and Osceola counties until 2 p.m. on Friday, June 6.

This is due to elevated levels of smoke from Canadian wildfires. According to the alert, pollutants are expected to reach the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" range, equivalent to a Level 3 risk out of six, with values up to 150 on the Air Quality Index scale.

It is recommended to avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially for those with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma. Monitor for symptoms including wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in the nose, throat, or eyes. Keep windows closed overnight to prevent smoke from entering indoors and, if possible, run central air conditioning with MERV-13 or higher-rated filters.

For more information, visit the EPA’s AirNow site for up-to-date air quality data: https://www.airnow.gov/.

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