Michigan updates air quality alert system as wildfire smoke season approaches04/15/2026(Associated Press) - Michigan is updating how it communicates air quality risks to residents this year after Canadian wildfires brought poor air quality to Detroit in 2023 and 2025. The state will now issue alerts when air quality reaches the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" range. Jim Haywood from the Michigan Department of Environment says forecasting smoke conditions beyond 48 hours is challenging. Authorities say they expect fewer fires north of the border than last year, but there's a greater risk in late summer in western Canada. To protect against smoke, residents are advised to use air purifiers and wear respirators.