HEALTH
Milwaukee wildfire smoke: How long it’s safe to stay outside
Blaise MesaMilwaukee Journal Sentinel
July 16, 2026, 12:33 p.m. CT
As wildfire smoke fills the Milwaukee skies, residents already stuck indoors after enduring days of sweltering heat might be asking themselves: Will it ever be safe to go outside?
If you’re feeling desperate to take a short outdoor walk, Mark Moss, an allergist for UW Health, said that’s still possible for some people in the smoky conditions, but it depends on the individual
The amount of time it’s safe for someone to spend outside in the smoky air depends on pre-existing conditions, Moss said. Healthier people will predicably be able to handle the conditions better. Anyone who uses an inhaler should have it ready.
Moss said outdoor walks should be limited to about 15 or 20 minutes with ample time inside. People who have to work outdoors should wear an N95 mask to prevent medical issues.
“You just want to limit your total time outdoors,” he said
Driving or walking to work, spending hours inside the office and then heading home for the day should be fine, Moss said.
Why is wildfire smoke harmful?
Smoke contains many small particles that get deep inside the lungs and cause inflammation, Moss said. While larger particles are easier to get out through coughing, smaller particles are trickier and can get into the bloodstream
What are the risks if I stay outside too long?
Moss said there are a handful of symptoms that become more serious as people spend more time outside.
It may start with sore throat, irritated nose, headache and fatigue, he said. It’s best to get inside, ideally into an air-conditioned place, if you’re feeling those symptoms. People who have asthma or COPD may experience coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and tightness in chest. Continuing to stay outside could lead to trouble breathing. People with more serious symptoms should seek medical help
