Canadaian wildfire smoke over downtown Wausau. MWC photo by Mike Leischner
WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) – As wildfire smoke spreads over Marathon County, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is urging residents to minimize their time outside for the next 48 hours.
According to a press release from the DNR, the agency has issued an Air Quality Advisory through Noon on Thursday, July 16, as Air Quality is expected to reach the Unhealthy (Red) to Very Unhealthy (Purple) level, with the potential to reach the Hazardous (Maroon) AQI (Air Quality Index) level. The Advisory will be re-evaluated Thursday morning and may be extended based on conditions.
The release further notes that data provided by the Department of Health Services shows that prolonged wildfire smoke exposure can affect anyone, including older adults, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and people with heart or lung conditions such as asthma or COPD.
Symptoms to look for include coughing or scratchy throat, burning or irritated eyes, and chest tightness or pain.
The agencies advise people to stay indoors as much as possible, keeping windows and doors closed and using air conditioning if available; set it to “recirculate” to avoid bringing outside air inside. Other suggestions include keeping an eye on vulnerable friends, neighbors, and family members who may want additional assistance, as well as bringing pets inside.
In response to the advisory, Wausau Events has announced that tonight’s Concerts on the Square, featuring The Briana Rae Band, will return to the Rothschild Pavilion. The concert will begin at 6 p.m., and more information can be found at wausauevents.org/concerts-on-the-square
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