Air Quality Alert: July 2026

Smoke from Canadian wildfires is impacting air quality across Michigan at unprecedented levels due to the amount and proximity of the fires. MSU teams continue to closely monitor air quality conditions and coordinate efforts to support the health and safety of our campus community.

Air Quality Outlook

• Friday, July 17: A statewide air quality alert remains in effect and has been extended through Saturday, July 18. Hourly air quality readings may fluctuate with some improvement possible if forecasted showers and thunderstorms develop.
• Saturday, July 18: Continued poor air quality is expected with conditions forecasted to be Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. Hourly air quality readings may fluctuate.
• Sunday, July 19: Continued poor air quality is expected.
• Monday, July 20: The statewide air quality alert has been extended through today. Conditions are expected to slowly improve, but smoke will continue to linger and air quality may reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups levels statewide. 

How to Protect Yourself 
Poor air quality can affect everyone, but especially children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with heart or lung conditions. To help keep Spartans safe and well, we encourage the following best practices at work and at home:

DO:

1. Monitor local air quality and heat conditions.
2. Stay indoors as much as possible.
3. Keep windows and outside doors closed.
4. Use air conditioning on the recirculate setting, if available.
5. Use a portable air cleaner or HVAC filter rated MERV-13 or higher, if possible.
6. Move outdoor activities indoors or postpone them.
7. Wear a properly fitted N95, P100, KN95 or KF94 respirator if you must be outside.
8. Seek medical care if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, severe coughing, dizziness or confusion.
9. Contact your supervisor or MSU Environmental Health and Safety for more information about working safely outdoors.

DO NOT:

1. Spend extended time outdoors.
2. Burn candles indoors.
3. Smoke or vape indoors.
4. Use aerosol sprays indoors.
5. Vacuum unless your vacuum has a HEPA filter.
6. Use a gas stove more than necessary.
7. Rely on cloth or paper masks to protect against wildfire smoke.
8. Ignore symptoms of smoke exposure or heat-related illness.

Resources

1. Monitor air quality.
2. Learn more about wildfire smoke and health.
3. Monitor heat risk.

Campus teams will continue monitoring conditions and share updates. This work includes collaboration among University Health and Well-Being (UHW); the Department of Police and Public Safety (DPPS); Emergency Management; Environmental Health and Safety (EHS); Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF); and University Communications (UCAM).

Thank you for helping keep yourself and those around you safe. We encourage everyone to take precautions and prioritize their well-being while air quality conditions remain poor.