If you’ve been outside for even a few minutes the past day, you’re aware of how smoke from wildfires burning in Canada and Minnesota has pushed air quality in parts of Michigan to dangerous levels.

As health officials urge Michiganders to stay indoors and take extra precautions, we’re sharing what you need to know to stay safe, and when the smoke is expected to dissipate.

Plus, as we look ahead to a time when the air isn’t trying to kill us and we can enjoy summer again, we’re running down the Michigan breweries with the best outdoor spaces.

Air quality alert extended (Freep): Michigan’s statewide air quality alert has been extended through Saturday as heavy wildfire smoke from Canada continues to create hazardous breathing conditions across the state. Officials expect air quality to improve this weekend if rain and shifting winds help clear the smoke, but residents are urged to limit outdoor activity until then.

More than 100 hospitalized in Michigan with cyclosporiasis (WOOD-TV): Michigan has reported more than 4,300 cases of a parasitic illness linked to “explosive” diarrhea, with over 100 people hospitalized as officials investigate a possible connection to lettuce or salad greens. Health officials urge anyone with symptoms to seek medical care and recommend thoroughly washing fresh produce while the source of the outbreak remains under investigation.

Lawmakers pass bill permitting backyard deer feeding (Bridge Michigan): A bill that would allow people to feed deer in their backyard in the Lower Peninsula is on its way to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s desk. Deer feeding has been banned in the Lower Peninsula since 2018 to stop the spread of diseases. While the bill passed with bipartisan support, wildlife experts worry that its passage could help spread chronic wasting disease.

A man rides his bike across a 10-mile road near Greenfield Road while the smoke from the wildfire lingers in the background on Thursday, July 16, 2026, in Southfield, Michigan. (USA Today Network)

By USA Today Network

As thick smoke blanketed Metro Detroit on Thursday from wildfires in Canada and Minnesota, health officials are urging residents to take precautions.

Dr. Avani Sheth, chief medical health officer for Wayne County Health, Human and Veterans Services, on Thursday said the best way for residents to protect themselves is to stay indoors in air conditioning, keep windows closed, reduce outdoor activity and check the Air Quality Index before going outside.

“Wildfire smoke at these levels is unhealthy for everyone, and the added heat can place even greater stress on the body,” Sheth said in a press release.

The air quality in southern Michigan reached levels so toxic Thursday morning that it was considered an “emergency condition” by federal environmental officials.

The conditions will last through Friday, according to a Thursday morning update from Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy meteorologists. How long it persists after that is “the big question,” they said.

Wayne County Public Health said warm temperatures are also expected on Thursday. It noted that the combination of heat and wildfire smoke can place additional stress on the body, particularly for older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers and anyone without access to air conditioning.

Many Michigan breweries feature great outdoor sitting areas. (Courtesy/Third Nature Brewing)

By Britteny Dee

If there’s one thing Michiganders know, it’s that we’re spoiled when it comes to craft beer. With more than 400 breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs across the state, Michigan has earned its place as one of the country’s top craft beer destinations. From iconic names like Bell’s and Founders to small-town taprooms, great beer is never far away.

But for many brewery fans, the setting matters just as much as what’s in their glass (or can). Fortunately, plenty of breweries throughout The Mitten offer outdoor spaces that are every bit as memorable as their beer. 

Whether you’re planning a summer road trip, a weekend brewery crawl, or simply looking for a new place to enjoy a drink outside, these nine Michigan breweries stand out for their exceptional outdoor spaces.

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

Interested?

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with stories from USA Today Network via Reuters Connect and Britteny Dee. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.

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