INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis has been experiencing moderate levels of wildfire smoke this week, with the air quality index (AQI) hovering around 50. This is a stark contrast to the summer of 2023, when the AQI often soared to levels nearing 300, posing significant health risks. Last year, extensive wildfires across the Western United States and Canada led to prolonged periods of poor air quality in the Midwest, including Indiana. The high concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) resulted in widespread advisories and health concerns, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
The current smoke conditions i...