The Air Quality Bureau in Des Moines reported more than 30 exceedances of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in Iowa last month related to the ongoing wildfires in Canada. The smoke resulted in 32 ozone exceedances and one fine particulate matter exceedance between May 18 and May 31. Iowa typically records fewer than four NAAQS exceedances per year on average. The highest ozone exceedances were observed on May 23, 24, and 29, with six instances occurring each day. All 32 ozone exceedances were classified as “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). People with lung diseases, such as asthma, older adults, children, teenagers, and individuals engaged in outdoor activities are considered sensitive to such conditions. The smoke is carried long distances by winds and may descend or remain aloft depending on weather conditions. The impact of the wildfires in Canada has affected Iowa since May 18, and intermittent and patchy smoke episodes may continue as long as the fires remain uncontrolled. Real-time air quality maps and information can be found on the EPA’s www.airnow.gov website.
