Air quality could become ‘unhealthy’ in Iowa due to Canadian wildfires [Video]

IOWA, USA — A statewide air quality alert is in effect for Iowa, issued by the Department of Natural Resources. It lasts through 6 a.m. on Thursday, June 5. 

The DNR said the air quality index (AQI) may reach red or unhealthy levels in certain areas. Sensitive groups and the general public could experience health effects when at this level. 

Thick smoke from wildfires in Canada is impacting air quality in several states in the U.S. 

“Intermittent thick smoke can be expected over Iowa with the heaviest band stretching across the state from the southwest through the northeast,” the Iowa DNR said in a press release. “This band will move south across the state today and tonight (Tuesday, June 3). Elevated levels of fine particulates may be a concern over the next several days as the smoke continues to move …