PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is once again issuing an Air Quality Alert as wildfire smoke from Quebec fires will continue to impact the state on Wednesday June 7, 2023. The Alert is being issued for UNHEALTHY fine particles on the Air Quality Index. The smoke event the state is currently experiencing will continue, as fires still burn in the source region. Regional flows remain favorable to transport smoke into Rhode Island. Once again expect wood burning odors, haze, reduced visibility, and unhealthy fine particles readings.
Large, uncontrolled wildfires in near Quebec continue to burn with significant smoke moving into our area as of 3PM Monday. All local monitors are currently UNHEALTHY with some increased values expected into this evening and overnight, with readings on the Air Quality Index potentially topping 150.
For certain groups at risk for exposure to poor air quality, such as people with preexisting medical conditions, it is recommended to remain indoors with windows closed during the times significant smoke is affecting your area. Additionally, for people outdoors, N95 masks can reduce exposure to pollutants in smoke plumes. As mentioned, if the smoke is reaching the ground, you will smell wood burning with reduced visibility.
For detailed information, please refer to DEM's air quality forecast page. https://dem.ri.gov/environmental-protection-bureau/air-resources/air-quality-forecast
Additionally, EPA's Fire and Smoke Map has detailed information on current air quality readings in your area, including DEM and Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) air quality monitors, along with the network of regional low-cost sensors. https://fire.airnow.gov/