The Maine Department of Environmental Protection has declared an air quality alert up and down Maine’s coastline for Wednesday and Thursday.

Ozone levels are expected to rise in conjunction with “particle pollution,” according to the alert, spawned by smoke from wildfires in Canada.

“The Maine Department of Environmental Protection recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects,” the alert states. “People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, the elderly, those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma, those with heart disease and anyone who is working hard outdoors.”

The department also noted that health impacts can be compounded in the case of high heat and humidity.

“It is OK to be active outdoors. But if you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation or an uncomfortable sensation in your chest please consider limiting the intensity and duration of your outdoor activities,” the department said.

Air quality reached “very unhealthy” levels in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan on Tuesday. The fires have forced more than 27,000 Canadians in three provinces to evacuate their homes, and smoke has reached as far as Europe.

Smoke from the wildfires could be seen over New York, Vermont and Ontario on Tuesday evening via satellite, said Michael Clair, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Gray.

“The wind has been flowing from north to south, but that’s drifting our way now,” Clair said.

But it is the coastline that is expected to see the most major effects, rather than the interior of Maine.

“The reason that the air quality alert is tied to the coast is the sea breeze tomorrow,” Clair said on Tuesday. “It helps to concentrate it along the coastline.”

A toll-free air quality hotline has been established for residents to stay informed: 1-800-223-1196.

This report contains material from The Associated Press.