Air Quality Alerts Stay Active in Midwest and Northeast From Wildfire Smoke

Air quality alerts remained in place on July 19, 2026, in parts of Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and New York, as well as some regions in Idaho and Oregon, Usa Today reported. Smoke from Canadian wildfires moved south and east into the United States, leaving a sepia-tinged haze across wide areas for several days.

Canadian authorities stated there are more than 950 active wildfires burning, with very few under control.

Tiny particles in the smoke can enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing both short- and long-term health effects for people with respiratory issues, the elderly, the very young, and otherwise healthy individuals. On July 17, President Donald Trump threatened to levy new tariffs on Canadian goods over the situation in a social media post.

Initial concerns that the smoke could affect the July 19 World Cup final in New Jersey eased after a weather front brought rain and storms that cleared much of the haze, the Record of Bergen County reported.

The forecast for the 3 p.m. Eastern game is now beautiful, a meteorologist told the outlet. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said exposure can cause eye irritation, scratchy throat, nasal and sinus irritation, coughing, wheezing, headaches, tiredness, and chest pain.

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology recommended remaining indoors with windows closed, using fans or air conditioning, and running air cleaners or filters. N95 masks can help filter smoke for those who must be outdoors, and local conditions can be checked by ZIP code at AirNow.gov.