Wildfires Expose Millions in the Midwest and Northeast US to Dangerous Smoke
Forest fires burning in Canada and Minnesota are exposing millions of people in the Midwest and Northeast US to dangerous air pollution. Minnesota officials issued an air quality alert from Tuesday to Friday for areas including the Twin Cities metropolitan area, Alexandria, and Two Harbors, with very heavy smoke expected throughout the northeast part of the state as large wildfires spread.
What Happened
Heavy smoke from several large forest fires burning in Canada and Minnesota is forecast to engulf large areas of the Midwest and Northeast US this week, exposing millions of people to dangerous air pollution. Air quality levels in Two Harbors, the Grand Portage Tribal Nation, and other regions in northeast Minnesota were predicted to reach hazardous levels, making it unhealthy for everyone.
Why It Matters
Dan Westervelt, associate research professor at Columbia University's Climate School, said severe drought conditions combined with heat in Canada and the US created “a perfect storm for very dry conditions to provide a lot of fuel for these wildfires to burn”. Research shows that the hot temperatures resulting from burning coal, oil, and gas are making wildfires more frequent and intense. People should stay indoors as much as possible to avoid the extreme heat, especially as the smoke moves, said Tyler Hasenstein, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Chanhassen, Minnesota.
The Mechanism/Science Behind This
Wildfires are a natural phenomenon that occurs worldwide, but the frequency and intensity of these fires have increased due to climate change. The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas, releases greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, which contribute to global warming. This, in turn, creates conditions more conducive to the occurrence of wildfires. Additionally, drought and extreme heat can create an ideal environment for the spread of wildfires.
Bigger Picture
Wildfires are not a new phenomenon, but the frequency and intensity of these fires have increased in recent years due to climate change. According to NASA, the area burned by wildfires in the US has increased 500% since the 1970s. Moreover, wildfires are not just a local problem, as smoke and particles can be transported over long distances, affecting air quality in distant areas.
What Happens Next
Officials in Michigan and Wisconsin warned residents on Tuesday about air quality issues that could last for days. High levels of fine particulate matter in the air from wildfire smoke can be unhealthy for sensitive groups, such as children and people with heart or respiratory conditions. People should take measures to protect themselves, such as staying indoors, wearing masks, and avoiding outdoor activities.
Health Consequences
Exposure to wildfire smoke can have serious health consequences, especially for sensitive groups. The smoke can contain fine particles, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and other pollutants that can cause respiratory, heart, and other health problems. Additionally, the smoke can also contribute to the formation of tropospheric ozone, which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.
Source / Reference
This article was originally published on Mongabay.