07/16/2026
Many of you have noticed the hazy skies and the smell of smoke across West Michigan today. This is being caused by wildfire smoke drifting south from large wildfires burning in Canada. While there are no widespread local wildfires causing these conditions, the smoke can be strong enough to reduce visibility and create the smell of a nearby fire.
Unfortunately, this pattern may continue for the next several days. We expect periods where conditions improve, followed by additional waves of smoke moving back into our area.
Before calling 911 because you smell smoke, please take a moment to investigate your surroundings if it is safe to do so. The widespread smoky conditions are generating hundreds, and in some areas thousands, of calls to dispatch centers. If you do not see visible flames, a smoke column, or another clear sign of a local fire, the odor is likely related to the wildfire smoke affecting our region.
That said, if you see an actual fire, heavy smoke coming from a building or wooded area, or believe there is an immediate emergency, call 911 without delay. We would much rather respond to a potential emergency than have a real fire go unreported.
To help protect yourself from the smoke:
• Stay indoors as much as possible, especially if you have asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other breathing conditions.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Run your air conditioner on the recirculate setting if possible.
• Use a portable HEPA air purifier if you have one.
• Limit strenuous outdoor activity until air quality improves.
• If you must be outside for an extended period during poor air quality, consider wearing a properly fitted N95 respirator.
For more information on protecting yourself from wildfire smoke, visit:
https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/safety-injury-prev/environmental-health/your-health-and-wildfire-smoke
Thank you for helping keep our 911 system available for those experiencing true emergencies while we continue to monitor conditions.
