Smoke from Canadian wildfires affects air quality in North Dakota and neighboring states

DICKINSON — Wildfires in Canada, particularly in Ontario and Quebec, have intensified, leading to significant smoke drifting into North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and parts of Wisconsin, impacting air quality. Drought, strong winds, and warmer conditions have exacerbated these fires, creating a complex challenge for environmental and health agencies.

The most recent data from the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Center Inc. counts a total of 130 active fires. 38 labeled “Out of Control,” and the majority a total of 81 labeled “Under Control.”

Meteorologist Michael Hollan from the Bismarck National Weather Service detailed how smoke from these northern fires is transported into the region by the jet stream, affecting both higher altitudes and ground levels depending on wind patterns.

Predicting the exact movement and density of smoke is challenging due to the dynamic nature of the fires and varying atmospheric conditions. “Forecasting the persistence of smoke is complex more than a day or two in advance,” Hollan noted, underscoring the unpredictable behavior of wildfires and their impact on air quality.

Local residents are advised to stay informed through the

North Dakota Department of Health and the Fire and Smoke Map

provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These resources offer updates on air quality, which is crucial for individuals with respiratory conditions or heart diseases, as PM2.5—fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke—can deeply penetrate lung tissue and exacerbate health issues.

Given the observed increase in the severity and frequency of wildfires due to climate change, such smoky conditions could become a more common occurrence. “There has been an overall increasing trend in the wildfire season, both the severity of it and the duration of it over the past few years,” stated Hollan.

He also suggested that this could be something people in the region might need to become more accustomed to, with potentially more smoky days than in the past.

For daily updates on smoke and air quality, North Dakotans should consult the North Dakota Department of Health’s website and the EPA’s Fire and Smoke Map, ensuring they have the latest information to make informed decisions about their health and safety during these recurring environmental events.

Manny is a journalist with a diverse background in communications. Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, he earned his degree in the DFW area before venturing to New York City. There he worked as an ethnic media reporter, covering local issues and immigration news. A long history of dedication to sensitive reporting, Manny’s journalistic journey has led him to Dickinson where he takes on the role of a hard news reporter.