The Detroit area was greeted with the worst air quality in the United States on Wednesday as smoke from wildfires in Canada settled over the Great Lakes region. This unhealthy haze spread as far south as Missouri and Kentucky, affecting areas like Chicago, Indianapolis, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh. The Environmental Protection Agency warned that the air quality in Detroit was “hazardous,” urging everyone to stay indoors and reduce activity levels.
The smoke from the wildfires is exacerbating air quality issues for poor and Black communities that are already burdened with living near pollution-producing plants and experiencing mold in their rental housing. Detroit’s southwest side, which is home to refineries and manufacturing plants, has long struggled with air pollution. This area is also one of the poorest parts of the city, with a high poverty rate and a predominantly Black population.
Residents like Darren Riley, who was diagnosed with asthma after moving to Detroit, have taken action to address air pollution. Riley founded JustAir, an organization that provides air pollution monitoring, recognizing the need for equal access to clean air regardless of ZIP code or skin color.
Other cities, such as Milwaukee and Chicago, have also seen an increase in respiratory complaints due to the smoky air. Officials have advised vulnerable individuals to limit outdoor activity and take precautions to protect themselves and their families.
The wildfires in Canada have burned a record-breaking amount of land this year, surpassing the previous record set in 1989. Although some wet weather in Quebec has helped firefighters tackle the flames, the fires are still raging, and rain is not expected to completely extinguish them. The Canadian wildfires are not only affecting the wilderness areas but also areas closer to heavily populated regions like Quebec and Ontario.
The small particles in wildfire smoke can have detrimental effects on health, including irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory system. It is essential to limit outdoor activities to minimize exposure to these particles. President Joe Biden, who has emphasized the urgency of climate change, will witness the impact of the wildfires during his visit to Chicago.
In conclusion, the smoke from Canada’s wildfires has created hazardous air quality conditions in the Detroit area, affecting neighboring states and cities. The smoke is worsening existing air quality issues and disproportionately impacting poor and Black communities. Efforts are being made to address air pollution and protect vulnerable individuals. The wildfires in Canada continue to burn, and it is crucial to take precautions to minimize health risks from the smoky air.
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