An 'Air Quality Alert' has been issued by the National Weather Service and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) all of Michigan, including Clare, Isabella, Kent, Lake, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties.

The alert was issued Friday, May 30, at 11:41 a.m. in response to wildfire smoke moving into the state from Canada. It will remain in effect until Saturday, May 31, at 6 a.m.

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, and to monitor for symptoms including wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in the nose, throat, and 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.

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