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Air quality concerns grow as wildfire smoke drifts into Metro Detroit

Expect highs near 90 degrees in Southeast Michigan

Southeast Michigan’s Air Quality Alert has been extended through Monday night. (WDIV)

Southeast Michigan’s Air Quality Alert has been extended through Monday night.

Wildfire smoke is reducing air quality for the entire state, including the potential for “unhealthy” air at times in Metro Detroit.

Hazy conditions will increase Sunday night as smoke particles envelop the region.

Consider limiting strenuous outdoor activity, especially for people with heart disease or existing respiratory problems. Watch for wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, dizziness, or irritation of the nose, throat and eyes.

It is advised to keep windows closed. If running central air conditioning, filters with a MERV-13 or higher rating are best for filtering smoke. An N-95 mask may offer protection, but hot weather may make wearing it uncomfortable. If you have any conditions that may cause difficulty breathing, it is best to consult your doctor before wearing a mask.

Southeast Michigan’s Air Quality Alert has been extended through Monday night. (WDIV)

Apart from the arrival of wildfire smoke, Metro Detroit has had a weekend of heat and storms. Sunday is wrapping up with partly cloudy skies. Temperatures will settle into the mid-60s overnight, providing great sleeping weather with low humidity. If you are headed out late Sunday, a light jacket may be needed.

Monday

Expect a dry start to the workweek, with hazy sunshine. Highs will climb into the upper-70s, with a mix of hazy sunshine and clouds by late morning. Afternoon temperatures will rise into the upper-80s, with fewer clouds. A westerly breeze of 5 to 10 mph and low humidity would make it a pleasant day to be outside, but air quality is expected to worsen through Monday.

Tuesday

The air will improve as winds shift and wildfire smoke dissipates by Tuesday.

Temperatures will rise on Tuesday. Highs will be near 90 degrees, under mostly sunny skies. UV levels will be high. Sunscreen is a must. Air quality will remain moderate, with no major concerns.

Wednesday

Humidity builds on Wednesday ahead of our next storm system. Highs in the upper-80s to 90 degrees. Scattered thunderstorms are possible during the late afternoon and evening. A few storms could become strong with heavy downpours and gusty winds.

Thursday

A weak cold front pushes through, bringing a break in the heat. Expect highs around 77°F with a mix of clouds and sun. A lingering shower is possible early in the day, but most areas will dry out by the afternoon. It will be a more comfortable day overall, with falling humidity making outdoor activities more comfortable.

Friday

Friday will be calm and seasonable. Look for partly cloudy skies and highs in the lower-80s. It will be great weather for hitting the golf course, visiting local festivals, or enjoying patio dining.

Next Weekend

The weekend will feature near-average warmth, with highs in the lower- to mid-80s. Humidity returns by Saturday afternoon. There is a slight chance for a pop-up shower or storm on Sunday.

Most of the weekend should stay dry, making it favorable for grilling or biking. However, if you are planning extended time outdoors, be ready for muggy conditions.

Overall, the upcoming week in Metro Detroit offers a little bit of everything: comfortable cool nights, summer heat, and midweek storm chances. The biggest impacts will come Wednesday with potential thunderstorms and Saturday’s increasing heat and humidity. Planning ahead and staying updated with 4Warn forecasts will help you stay safe and cool.

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