Midwest's Air Quality Worst In World: How Long Will It Last In IA

While we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, you might be wondering if it will be safe to be out and about due to the air quality.

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Several weeks ago, the East Coast experienced dire air quality due to the Canadian Wildfires that were breaking out. Places like New York City experienced intense haze for days, and it looks like the air quality will take a dive there again, according to reports.

The Midwest didn't experience it at first, but last week we got a little taste of the poor air quality that had been plaguing the East Coast. While it was gone in around 24 hours , this time it might stick around for a bit.

According to reports, Chicago and Detroit's air quality is some of the worst in the world at the moment. This smoke will spread all across the Great Lakes Region and has hit parts of Iowa.

According to our weather partner KCRG, most of Eastern Iowa will be seeing low-level wildfire smoke concentrations for approximately the next 24 hours. You should expect to continue to see the Air Quality Index in most places throughout the listenership to remain at the red or unhealthy category throughout the day.

Officials say there is a decent chance that it could be even worse in some regions, where it could fall under the purple/ very unhealthy category.

People are encouraged to limit time outdoors as much as possible if you are located in one of these areas. Also, if you are working outside or doing outdoor activities, remember to take breaks.

Cedar Rapids and Waterloo are both under the "very unhealthy" AQI categories. One of the big concerns for people in both areas is the "fine particulate matter."

According to AccuWeather, this is; "inhalable pollutant particles with a diameter less than 2.5 micrometers that can enter the lungs and bloodstream, resulting in serious health issues."

KCRG predicts that these issues will persist until Thursday evening. Avoid strenuous activity outside until the conditions improve.

Stay up to date with everything going on in Eastern Iowa by downloading the free station app from your app store. Also, make sure you're following the station across all social media platforms for the most up to date details about local news and weather.