Originally published July 22nd, 2023 at 7:19 p.m.
Updated July 24th, 2023 6:35 a.m.
(KNSI) – An air quality alert has been issued for central and northern Minnesota due to smoke from Canadian wildfires.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says the alert is in place until at least 6:00 p.m. Monday. The air will reach the orange, or unhealthy for sensitive groups, category.
The affected area includes Brainerd, Alexandria, Hinckley, St. Cloud, Bemidji, International Falls, Two Harbors, Hibbing, Ely, Duluth, Roseau, and the tribal nations of Mille Lacs, Leech Lake, Red Lake, Grand Portage, and the Fond du Lac Tribal Nation.
In the orange area, sensitive groups should limit prolonged or heavy exertion and time spent outdoors.
The pollution may aggravate heart and lung disease and cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and fatigue.
A narrow band of heavy smoke across southern Manitoba is catching a ride on northwest winds. Air quality should improve by Monday morning across central Minnesota.
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