Air Quality Alert Issued for Southern Minnesota
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an Air Quality Alert for fine particles pollution. The Air Quality Index is expected to reach the 'red' or unhealthy category.
A band of very heavy smoke from wildfires in northeast British Columbia has moved into northern Minnesota and will sweep south across the state on Sunday behind a cold front. The smoke will reach central Minnesota by Sunday afternoon and southern Minnesota by Sunday evening. Smoke will have a rapid onset as the front passes and will linger overnight before clearing Monday morning.
Sensitive groups, such as people with lung disease (including asthma), heart disease, and children and older adults, should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. The general public should limit prolonged or heavy exertion.
Reduce or eliminate activities that contribute to air pollution, such as outdoor burning, and use of residential wood burning devices. Reduce vehicle trips and vehicle idling as much as possible/
Keep windows closed overnight to prevent smoke from getting indoors.