Wildfire Smoke Episodes Tripled Since the 1990s
Global wildfire smoke has increased significantly, heightening risks for those with respiratory conditions like asthma.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Asthma
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The World Meteorological Organization reported on September 7, 2026, that extreme wildfire smoke episodes have tripled globally since the 1990s. This rise in pollution, driven by heatwaves and fire activity, poses serious health challenges for individuals with chronic respiratory issues.
Why it matters
Rising levels of wildfire-related PM2.5 and ozone can trigger asthma flare-ups and other health complications for vulnerable populations. The persistence of these conditions makes monitoring local air quality reports increasingly vital for respiratory health management.
A report using Earth system modeling identified that fire-attributable mortality may be underestimated by up to 93% by conventional models. The study analyzed decades of data, finding that extreme smoke events tripled since the 1990s and contributed to 100,000 annual deaths from 2010 to 2018.
The players
World Meteorological Organization
An intergovernmental agency that tracks atmospheric changes and provides data on climate-related health risks.
The details
Rising global temperatures and stagnant atmospheric conditions facilitate the buildup of PM2.5 and ozone. Wildfire smoke further alters the climate by depositing black carbon on ice, which reduces solar reflection and worsens regional heat. Additionally, the degradation of plastics via sunlight produces microplastics, which were estimated at 51 million tonnes on land and 22 million tonnes in the oceans.
Timeline
The 1990s marked the start of global tracking for wildfire smoke episodes.
Nearly 100,000 annual deaths occurred between 2010 and 2018 due to fire smoke.
PM2.5 levels were notably elevated in northern Canada, Russia, and central-west Africa in 2025.
The World Meteorological Organization released its latest air quality bulletin on September 7, 2026.
Health Landscape
This bulletin documents a shift in the global respiratory health landscape as climate extremes drive unprecedented pollution patterns. The findings refine our understanding of how wildfire-linked PM2.5 and ozone pollution exceed historical averages and challenge existing mortality models.
Because extreme smoke events are becoming more frequent, it is wise to monitor air quality alerts and recognize your specific triggers. If you notice increased respiratory symptoms during periods of high heat or poor air quality, discuss a personalized action plan with your doctor.
The takeaway
Increased wildfire activity is creating more frequent air quality hazards that directly affect respiratory health. Keep track of local air quality indices and consult your physician to review your asthma management strategy during peak wildfire months.
Further reading
For more on protecting your respiratory health, visit the Asthma section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by PlusNews.
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