The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has issued an Air Quality Action Day for Friday, July 17th, covering most of Indiana — including all of North Central, Northwest, and Northeast Indiana.
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels are expected to reach the Unhealthy (Red) range across the North Central Indiana region, which includes Plymouth, Elkhart, Goshen, Knox, Logansport, Peru, South Bend, Warsaw, Winamac, and surrounding communities. The Air Quality Action Day is in effect for the full 24-hour period, from midnight to 11:59 p.m.
Lingering Canadian wildfire smoke is the primary culprit. Despite evening rain chances on Friday, the smoke is expected to remain in the region throughout the day, pushing PM2.5 readings into the Unhealthy range across northern Indiana.
Sensitive individuals — including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or heart conditions — are strongly encouraged to limit outdoor activity on Friday. Everyone is advised to monitor air quality conditions throughout the day.
Hoosiers can visit SmogWatch.IN.gov to view a real-time state map of affected counties, learn more about Air Quality Action Days and recommended precautions, and sign up to receive air quality alerts directly.
Bost Veterans Act passes in U.S. House of Representatives
Health emergency declared in Knox County
Search continues for southwestern Indiana murder suspect
Lawrenceville moving forward toward old LHS demolition
Lawrence County time capsule to be opened
Lawrence County honors its' servicemen and women on Veterans Day
Illinois State Police to conduct holiday safety patrols
LCMH adds new team member
Toyota Princeton plant to produce new vehicle
Illinois to get additional federal healthcare funding
Prep your vehicle for winter weather
Expanded opportunities for incarcerated Hoosiers through 10-year Ivy Tech partnership
Southwestern Indiana fatal accident victim identified
Bridgeport to look at property ordinance revision
Conservation officers remind hunters to prioritize safety during deer season
Knox County caucus set to replace Streeter
Unit 20 Board to replace football field turf
