Milwaukee woke up under a smoky film Monday, July 20, with patchy haze hanging over the city and temperatures in the mid-60s. The sun is expected to break through later, and the afternoon will turn hot, with a high near 88°F and southwest breezes that will gust at times. Air quality is poor this morning for sensitive residents, and conditions could change quickly once tonight’s storms start to move in.
Smoke and Air Quality
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has a statewide Air Quality Advisory in effect through noon Monday, warning that fine particles (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke could reach unhealthy to very unhealthy levels across the region, especially in northeast counties, according to the Wisconsin DNR. People with asthma, heart disease, older adults and children should avoid prolonged outdoor exertion and consider moving activities indoors or using an N95-style mask. Visibility will remain reduced at times across the metro, so check local sensors before heading out for a run or bike ride.
Storms, Gusts, and Beach Hazards
Thunderstorms are possible tonight, with scattered showers between about 7 p.m. and midnight and the highest chance after 9 p.m. Some storms could produce heavy rain and strong gusts, with southwest wind gusts up to about 30 mph possible, and new rainfall amounts of roughly 0.5 to 0.75 inches may fall in the heaviest cells. The National Weather Service also warns of a High Swim Risk for Ozaukee and Sheboygan County beaches Monday afternoon and small-craft concerns on Lake Michigan, so avoid swimming and boating while advisories are in effect, per NWS Milwaukee.
Practical Tips
Keep windows closed and car vents set to recirculate if you can, and move outdoor plans indoors when possible. If you must be outside, wear an N95 or similar mask to reduce particle inhalation and avoid strenuous exercise. Drivers should be ready for sudden downpours and gusty conditions this evening, leave extra time to get where you are going, and avoid flooded low spots.
More Context
For background on the weekend buildup and lake conditions, see our look at Milwaukee’s smoke, rough surf and steamy skies. We will update this post if the DNR or NWS extends advisories or issues severe watches.
