top of page

The Unseen Reach of Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke travels globally, affecting air quality and health. Tiny particles enter lungs, bloodstream & linger for weeks.

Ava Montini

Feb 12, 2025

Written by 

Published on

Tags

The Smoke We Cannot Escape


Wildfires have long been a force of nature, shaping landscapes and ecosystems for millennia. But in recent years, their intensity and frequency have surged, fueled by rising global temperatures and prolonged drought conditions. The impact of these fires extends far beyond the visible destruction of forests and homes. Their invisible consequence—wildfire smoke—travels thousands of kilometers, infiltrating cities, homes, and even the bodies of people who may never see a flame.


The microscopic particles in wildfire smoke, known as particulate matter (PM), pose one of the greatest health threats from these disasters. They are not just an inconvenience or a temporary blight on air quality; they represent a serious, often underappreciated, global health crisis.


The Anatomy of Wildfire Smoke: What’s in the Air We Breathe?



At first glance, wildfire smoke appears as a dense, ominous haze, carrying with it the distinct scent of burning vegetation. But within that haze lies a complex mixture of gases and tiny particles, many of which are harmful to human health.


Breaking Down Particulate Matter in Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke contains a range of particles of varying sizes, each with distinct effects on human health:


Coarse Particles (PM10)

Particles with diameters of 10 micrometers or smaller. These can cause throat irritation, coughing, and eye discomfort but are typically trapped by the upper respiratory system.


Fine Particles (PM2.5)

Particles 2.5 micrometers or smaller are the most dangerous because they can bypass the body’s natural defense mechanisms, reaching deep into the lungs and even entering the bloodstream (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2023).


Ultrafine Particles (UFPs)

Smaller than 0.1 micrometers, these are even more hazardous as they can infiltrate cells and potentially damage DNA.


The Dangers of PM2.5 Exposure

PM2.5 is particularly concerning due to its ability to cause severe health complications:

  • Lung Damage: Chronic exposure can cause scarring of lung tissue and decreased lung function, particularly in children and elderly populations.

  • Cardiovascular Issues: PM2.5 has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension due to systemic inflammation (American Heart Association, 2022).

  • Neurological Effects: Recent studies suggest that PM2.5 particles may cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially contributing to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 2023).

  • Cancer Risk: Many PM2.5 particles contain carcinogenic compounds like benzene and formaldehyde, increasing the likelihood of developing lung and other cancers (National Cancer Institute, 2023).


Toxic Chemical Composition

  • Wildfire smoke contains carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, formaldehyde, and other carcinogens (World Health Organization, 2022).

  • The exact composition depends on what is burning—trees, vegetation, homes, and even industrial materials can release different toxins.


Smoke Without Borders: The Far-Reaching Effects of Wildfire Pollution



It’s a common misconception that wildfire smoke only affects areas directly adjacent to the fire itself. The reality is much more alarming: smoke travels vast distances, often impacting populations thousands of kilometers away.


In 2023, wildfires in Canada sent smoke as far south as Florida and even across the Atlantic to Europe (NASA Earth Observatory, 2023). This isn’t an isolated event—wildfire smoke from California has been detected in New York, and Siberian wildfires have impacted air quality in Alaska.


Why Does Smoke Travel So Far?

Smoke travels vast distances due to atmospheric transport, where large-scale wind patterns, jet streams, and pressure systems carry it far from its source. High-altitude smoke plumes further contribute to this movement, as intense fires generate their own weather patterns, creating pyrocumulonimbus clouds that inject smoke into the stratosphere, allowing it to spread across continents. Unlike localized pollution sources, wildfire smoke lingers in the atmosphere for weeks, gradually dispersing but remaining hazardous over time.


Strategies for Mitigating Wildfire Smoke Exposure


With wildfires becoming more frequent, protecting against smoke exposure is no longer a seasonal concern—it’s a year-round necessity.


Importance of Filtration and Indoor Air Quality

  • HEPA and Advanced Filtration: Using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and low-pressure, high-efficiency filtration technologies can effectively remove PM2.5 and harmful gases from indoor environments.

  • HVAC Integration: Homes, schools, and businesses in wildfire-prone areas should consider upgrading HVAC systems to include electromagnetic and carbon filtration, which can significantly reduce the concentration of wildfire pollutants indoors.

  • Portable Air Cleaners: During wildfire events, having standalone air purifiers with activated carbon and HEPA filters can provide localized air quality improvements, especially in homes without central air filtration.

  • Sealing Indoor Spaces: Proper insulation, window sealing, and positive air pressure systems can prevent outdoor smoke from infiltrating indoor spaces, creating a safer breathing environment.


Individual Actions

  • Stay Informed: Monitor air quality indexes (AQI) through resources like AirNow.gov.

  • Limit Outdoor Exposure: On high-smoke days, reduce outdoor activity, especially for children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions.

  • Wear Protective Masks: N95 or P100 masks filter out fine particles and are significantly more effective than cloth masks.


A Global Challenge Requiring Collective Action

Wildfire smoke is not a localized problem—it is a planetary issue with far-reaching consequences for public health and the environment. As climate change accelerates, wildfires will only grow in scale and intensity, making it crucial to acknowledge the real risks posed by airborne pollutants and take action to protect communities worldwide.


Understanding wildfire smoke’s movement, composition, and health effects is the first step in mitigating its dangers. While technological advances and policy interventions are essential, awareness and individual preparedness remain our best defense. As we move forward, we must rethink how we manage forests, protect air quality, and safeguard human health in an era where wildfires no longer recognize borders.

MERV 8 vs MERV 11: Which is Better?

Writer's picture: Jennifer CrowleyJennifer Crowley
Dirty furnace filter laying atop a clean filter
When comparing MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters, it is important to consider their particle capture capabilities, air flow rates, pressure drops, and costs.

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is a rating system that measures the effectiveness of air filters in capturing particles of different sizes. The MERV rating scale ranges from 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating greater efficiency in capturing smaller particles.


In this blog post, we will compare two standard MERV ratings for air filters: MERV 8 vs MERV 11. We will discuss the pros and cons of each type, their particle capture capabilities, air flow rates, pressure drops, and costs, as well as provide guidance on choosing between the two.


What is MERV 8?

MERV 8 filters can capture particles that are 3 to 10 microns in size, such as

  1. Pollen

  2. Dust mites

  3. Pet dander


They are less expensive and allow for higher airflow rates than higher MERV-rated filters, making them a good choice for systems with high airflow needs. However, MERV 8 filters may not capture smaller particles that can cause respiratory problems, such as mould spores and bacteria. They must also be changed more frequently than higher-rated filters to maintain effectiveness.


What is MERV 11?

MERV 11 filters can capture particles that are 1 to 3 microns in size, such as:

  1. Pollen

  2. Dust mites

  3. Mould

  4. Large dust particles

  5. Auto emissions

  6. Fine air particles

  7. Pet dander

  8. Lint

  9. Smoke

  10. Smog

  11. Bacteria


MERV 11 filters offer better filtration than MERV 8 filters and can help improve indoor air quality for people with allergies or respiratory problems. However, they are also more expensive and can restrict airflow more than MERV 8 filters. When the airflow is restricted, it can lead to discomfort, higher energy consumption, and faster wear and tear of HVAC equipment. Using an air filter with a MERV rating that exceeds your system’s recommended level can be particularly damaging, causing harm to the compressor, heat exchanger, and air conditioner coil.


Comparison of MERV 8 vs MERV 11

When comparing MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters, it is important to consider their particle capture capabilities, air flow rates, pressure drops, and costs.


Particle capture Comparison chart of MERV 8 Vs, MERV 11
MERV 11 filters more effectively capture smaller particles than MERV 8 filters.

Particle capture capabilities: MERV 11 filters more effectively capture smaller particles than MERV 8 filters. This means they can help improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory problems. However, MERV 8 filters may be sufficient for capturing larger particles like pollen and dust, which can also contribute to indoor air pollution.


Air flow rates: MERV 8 filters allow for higher airflow rates than MERV 11 filters. This means they may be a better choice for standard HVAC systems with high airflow needs, such as commercial buildings that don’t require superior air filtration. MERV 11 filters can restrict airflow more than MERV 8 filters, which can cause strain on HVAC systems and potentially increase energy costs.


Pressure drops: MERV 11 filters can cause higher pressure drops than MERV 8 filters, further straining HVAC systems and reducing energy efficiency. Choosing the right filter for the specific system is essential to avoid this issue.


Costs: MERV 11 filters are generally more expensive than MERV 8 filters, which can be a factor for those on a tight budget. Additionally, MERV 11-rated filters get clogged much more quickly than a MERV 8 filter and have to be replaced frequently.


How to Choose Between MERV 8 and MERV 11?

When choosing between MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters, it is crucial to consider the HVAC system’s and its occupants’ specific needs. Here are some factors to consider:


Types of particles present: If your system needs to capture smaller particles like mould spores or bacteria, a MERV 11 filter may be more appropriate. If it only needs to capture larger particles like pollen and dust, a MERV 8 filter may suffice.


Air flow rate required: If your system requires high air flow rates, a MERV 8 filter may be a better choice. However, if indoor air quality is a higher priority and airflow rates can be sacrificed, a MERV 11 filter may be a better choice.


Budget available: A MERV 8 filter may be more cost-effective if the budget is a concern. However, if indoor air quality is a higher priority and a higher initial cost can be justified, a MERV 11 filter may be a better choice in the long run.


Occupant health concerns: If occupants have allergies or respiratory problems, a MERV 11 filter may be more appropriate to help improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of health issues. However, if no health concerns are present and your system only needs to capture larger particles, a MERV 8 filter may be sufficient.


In summary, MERV 8 and MERV 11 filters both have their advantages and disadvantages and choosing between them depends on your HVAC system’s specific needs and occupants. While MERV 11 filters offer better particle capture capabilities and improved indoor air quality, they also come with higher costs and potential airflow restrictions. On the other hand, MERV 8 filters allow for higher air flow rates and are more cost-effective but may not capture smaller particles that can cause health problems. It is important to weigh these factors carefully and consult a professional to determine the best filter for your system.

Explore expert insights, stay up to date with industry events, and gain a deeper understanding of the cutting-edge developments that are revolutionizing the indoor air quality landscape within Blade Air's comprehensive Insights Hub.

You can also subscribe to our monthly newsletter below for exclusive early access to Blade's Insights content, uncovering tomorrow's air quality advancements before they hit our Hub.

Insights Hub

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consec tetur adipiscing elit. Sit quis auctor 

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet cotetur 

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consec tetur adipiscing elit. Sit quis auctor 

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet cotetur 

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consec tetur adipiscing elit. Sit quis auctor 

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet cotetur 

bottom of page