PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) issued an air quality alert for areas of South Dakota affected by smoke from Canadian wildfires. The smoke caused low visibility and increased levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution. The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH) advised that these elevated levels posed potential health concerns and provided resources to help residents make informed healthcare decisions.
The alert went into effect on Friday, July 11, 2025, and remained in place through Sunday, July 13, 2025, or until conditions improved.
Elderly individuals, young children, and those with respiratory conditions were identified as most at risk. All residents were advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activity and minimize time outside during periods of low visibility. People were also encouraged to keep indoor air clean by closing windows and doors.
Exposure to poor air quality can worsen heart conditions and lung diseases such as asthma and COPD. During the alert, individuals with these conditions may have experienced symptoms including chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or fatigue. Those with health concerns related to the smoke were urged to contact their healthcare provider.
DANR made realtime air quality data available on its website for several South Dakota locations. Hourly PM2.5 concentrations exceeding 35 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³) were considered a public health concern.