North America Smoke 2026
July 19 – July 19, 2026 Updated 2 days ago
Every published chapter of The Fold's coverage of North America Smoke 2026, in one place — oldest to newest, updated as the story develops.
Minnesota air quality hits worst levels on record as Boundary Waters fires burn
Minnesota recorded the most intense smoke pollution in its history this week, with readings in Ely and Duluth far above anything previously measured. The Twin Cities reached a "hazardous" air rating for the first time on record.
Trump threatens tariffs over Canadian wildfire smoke as more than 900 fires burn
Smoke from over 900 Canadian wildfires has pushed air quality into unhealthy ranges across the US Midwest and Northeast. Trump said the cost of the pollution should be added to the tariffs Canada already pays.