The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) issued an air quality alert last Thursday for areas of South Dakota where smoke from wildfires in Canada has settled. The smoke caused low visibility and increased fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution. Last week’s pollution levels were greater than the National Ambient Air Quality Standard.
DANR warned people to avoid excessive physical exertion and minimize outdoor activities during periods of low visibility caused by the wildfire smoke. People were also encouraged to keep indoor air clean by closing windows and doors.
Air pollution can aggravate heart and cardiovascular disease as well as lung diseases like asthma and COPD.
