The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has issued an air quality alert for Wednesday, July 15, as bands of heavy wildfire smoke from fires in northern Minnesota move into the region.
Fine particle readings are expected to reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups on the Air Quality Index beginning midday, with elevated readings continuing into Thursday.
Residents with asthma, lung conditions, or heart conditions are advised to stay indoors with windows closed when fine particle levels are high, limit outdoor activity and choose less strenuous options when outside, wear a properly fitted N95 mask outdoors, and set car air systems to recirculate while driving. High-efficiency HEPA air filters are also recommended for home heating and cooling systems.
Wildfire smoke can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs and worsen symptoms in those with respiratory or cardiac conditions. Reduced visibility and the smell of smoke are also expected.
Current air quality conditions are available at airnow.gov or through the AirNow app, and at dem.ri.gov/airquality. The EPA’s Fire and Smoke Map includes real-time readings from DEM and RIDOH monitors across the state.
