Grand Rapids, Mich. — Air quality across Michigan reached unhealthy levels Thursday as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifted south, prompting state officials to issue an air quality advisory through noon Friday.
Dr. Julia Becker, a pulmonary and critical care physician at Corewell Health, reported a noticeable increase in symptoms among patients with lung conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, she noted that the effects extend beyond those with preexisting health issues.
“Even healthy people might notice coughing, headaches, and sore throats,” Becker said. “All those conditions worsen when air quality deteriorates to unhealthy levels, like it did Thursday in West Michigan.”
Becker highlighted that certain groups are especially vulnerable, including children under 18, adults over 65, pregnant individuals, people with heart or lung diseases, and those who work outdoors. She warned that exposure to poor air quality can lead to symptoms within minutes and cause lasting health effects.
“People experience increased heart and lung events for up to three months after exposure,” she explained. “This includes more heart attacks, heart rhythm problems, and pneumonia. The inflammatory damage from inhaled pollutants lingers long after the smoke clears.”
Health experts recommend limiting outdoor activity, keeping windows closed, and using high-quality air filtration systems such as HEPA filters to reduce exposure.
Residents in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo can monitor real-time air quality through JustAir, a network of sensors placed throughout the region, including locations at Sixth Street Bridge Park and the Medical Mile.
As Michigan continues to contend with the smoky conditions, officials urge the public to take precautions to protect their respiratory health.
