Another Air Quality Alert in Effect for Minnesota

(KNSI) – Smoke from large wildfires in Canada is once again blowing into Minnesota, making the air unsafe for some people to breathe, causing the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to issue another air quality alert.

Heavy surface smoke from many wildfires across central Saskatchewan and Manitoba will wrap around the backside of an area of low pressure as it moves east across south central Canada. Heavy smoke should then disperse from west to east across the state from Monday into Tuesday morning.

The MPCA says the air for the northern half of the state, including the St. Cloud metro area, will be in the red, or unhealthy for everyone, category. This includes anyone with lung problems like asthma, COPD, people with heart disease, children, and older adults. For those in that category, experts say to stay inside when possible and avoid heavy exercise or outdoor activities. Keep windows and doors closed, and use air conditioning on recirculate mode if it’s available.

Everyone else should limit time outside and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.

The alert is in effect until 9:00 Tuesday morning.

___