The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued a statewide air quality alert in effect through 6 p.m. CDT Monday due to elevated levels of fine particle pollution. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast to reach the Orange category, indicating conditions that are unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Smoke from large wildfires burning in Manitoba and Saskatchewan is being pulled southward into Minnesota by a cold front, contributing to poor air quality across the state.
Health officials advise people with lung or heart conditions, as well as children and older adults, to limit prolonged outdoor activity. Residents are also urged to reduce pollution-causing activities such as vehicle idling and outdoor burning, and to keep windows closed overnight to limit indoor smoke exposure.
The alert may be extended if smoke continues to impact the region.
