Department of Environmental Quality Urges Caution During Smoky Conditions

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(KNOX) –  The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality is actively monitoring Canadian wildfires, which are expected to affect air quality across the state in the coming days. Sensitive groups, such as people with lung disease, including asthma, heart disease, children, and older adults, should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. The public is also encouraged to limit such activities when smoke is present.

The Department closely monitors its air sampling network across the state and encourages residents to stay informed through the AirNow.gov website and mobile app for current air quality conditions.

• Reduce or avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed if smoke is visible or detectable.
• Limit activities that contribute to air pollution, such as outdoor burning, use of wood-burning devices, unnecessary vehicle trips and idling.

  For real-time information on air quality and smoke conditions, visit:

  • Air Quality Index & Map: www.airnow.gov
  • Fire and Smoke Map: fire.airnow.gov
  • North Dakota Air Monitoring: deq.nd.gov/AQ/monitoring
  • National Weather Forecast for ND: graphical.weather.gov – ND
  • Wildfire Smoke Forecasts: firesmoke.ca