Wildfire Smoke Responsible for Air Quality Concerns Across Aroostook County Tuesday

AROOSTOOK COUNTY, Maine (WAGM) - Smoke from hundreds of wildfires burning across central Canada has drifted into northern Maine, leading to hazy skies and poor air quality across Aroostook County. Air quality deteriorated Tuesday afternoon, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbing into the Unhealthy category in parts of northern Maine due to elevated concentrations of fine particulate matter, or PM2.5. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose health risks, especially for children, older adults, people with asthma or heart disease, and anyone spending extended periods outdoors.

While smoke concentrations are expected to fluctuate through the overnight hours, forecast guidance indicates another large plume of wildfire smoke will move east from Ontario and Quebec on Wednesday before reaching northern New England later Wednesday into Thursday. Although the thickest smoke is expected to remain west of Maine, enough smoke is likely to reach the region to keep skies hazy and air quality concerns in place for at least the next couple of days.

Most forecast guidance currently suggests overall air quality should improve from Tuesday evening’s worst conditions, with PM2.5 levels generally falling into the Moderate category on Wednesday and Thursday. Even so, individuals who are sensitive to smoke should consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity if haze becomes more noticeable or if air quality worsens.

Residents can also reduce exposure by keeping windows closed, running air conditioning on recirculate when possible, and using a HEPA air purifier indoors. Meteorologists will continue monitoring the evolution of the smoke plume, as subtle changes in wind direction and atmospheric mixing could cause local air quality to improve or deteriorate with little notice.