Minnesota issues air quality alert as wildfire smoke drives AQI into unhealthy range

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) issued an air quality alert covering east central, southeast, south central and northeast Minnesota, beginning at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, and ending at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 20. The alert includes cities such as Albert Lea, Rochester, Winona, Two Harbors, Hibbing, Ely, Duluth, Prairie Island, Grand Portage and Fond du Lac, as well as several Tribal Nations.

According to the MPCA, fine particle concentrations from wildfire smoke are expected to reach the red category of the Air Quality Index, which is classified as unhealthy for all residents. > "In the red area, sensitive groups should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion and limit time spent outdoors. Everyone should limit prolonged or heavy exertion and time spent outdoors," the agency said.

Heavy smoke is forecast to linger in northeast Minnesota through Sunday morning, with improving conditions expected later Sunday as southwesterly winds shift. However, areas near Lake Superior’s shoreline and the fire zones may continue to experience poor air quality into the afternoon. The northeast alert is set to expire at 7 p.m. Sunday, though localized smoke could persist.

Smoke is also expected to move into southeastern and far east-central Minnesota early Sunday, maintaining unhealthy conditions through Monday morning. The MPCA cautioned that the haze may reduce visibility and cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, as well as coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. People with asthma, heart disease or other pre-existing conditions could face heightened risks.

The fires originated after a dry thunderstorm on July 6 produced more than 1,000 lightning strikes, igniting numerous blazes that have burned over 70,000 acres. Fire managers have deployed additional engines, air support and crews to assist local efforts.