'Very unhealthy' air quality as wildfire smoke moves in to Minnesota

Heavy ground-level smoke from wildfires in central Canada has moved into Minnesota behind a line of thunderstorms on Friday, July 11, prompting an air quality alert.

The alert began Friday morning, with the air quality index expected to peak at the purple level, meaning the air would be very unhealthy for everyone.

The first band of smoke impacted Northern Minnesota Friday as it moved east during the day. Air quality will worsen across northeast Minnesota Friday evening as smoke arrives over the region.

A second round of smoke will move into northwest Minnesota late Friday evening. This smoke will be more widespread as it moves southeast overnight, and by Saturday afternoon the entire state may be impacted. The heaviest smoke on Saturday will be across the northern half of the state.

Air quality will begin to improve across western Minnesota Sunday morning as cleaner air moves in from the west. By Sunday evening, the smoke should be gone from most of the state.

Another round of smoke is possible across far northern Minnesota Sunday night.

Sensitive groups, such as people with lung disease (including asthma), heart disease, and children and older adults, should avoid all physical activities outdoors. The general public should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

The alert states that people should 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.