MINNESOTA
— A widespread
Air Quality Alert
remains in effect across
northern and central Minnesota
through
9 a.m. Monday
, as thick
wildfire smoke from Canada
blankets much of the region. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has issued the alert in response to rising
fine particle pollution
, which has pushed the
Air Quality Index (AQI)
into the
“Red” or “Unhealthy” category
for several counties.
Affected areas include
Duluth, Hibbing, Brainerd, and International Falls
, where visibility is reduced and breathing conditions have become increasingly difficult, especially for sensitive populations.
Smoky Haze Lingers Across the State
According to the
MPCA
, the region is experiencing
moderate to heavy smoke
, which will linger throughout
Sunday evening
before beginning to clear
northward
by early
Monday
. While northeastern Minnesota has seen some relief, the alert has now
expanded southward
, covering additional counties such as
Pine
and
Crow Wing
.
Officials say the smoke is largely due to
ongoing wildfires in Canada
, which have released large quantities of fine particulate matter into the atmosphere. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose a
serious health risk
, particularly for people with
heart or lung conditions
,
older adults
, and
children
.
Precautions Urged for Public Health
Health authorities are advising residents to take precautions during the alert period:
-
Limit outdoor activities
, especially vigorous physical exertion -
Stay indoors
with windows closed to prevent smoke infiltration -
Avoid prolonged exposure
to polluted air if possible -
Consider using
air purifiers or HEPA filters
indoors -
Those with existing respiratory conditions should have
medications on hand
Motorists are also encouraged to help reduce pollution by limiting
vehicle idling
, avoiding
outdoor burning
, and minimizing use of
residential wood-burning devices
.
Possible Extension if Conditions Worsen
While the current alert is set to
expire by 9 a.m. Monday
, officials caution that if
wildfire activity increases
, smoke accumulation could
persist or worsen
, prompting new alerts or extensions.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will continue to monitor air quality and issue updates as necessary. Residents can check the
latest AQI levels and health recommendations
by visiting the
MPCA’s air quality page
.
Have you noticed smoke or experienced symptoms in your area?
Let us know how it’s affecting your weekend plans or health by sharing your thoughts at
ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com
.
