PCA estimates 12-16 days of wildfire smoke this summer

Minnesotans should expect 12 to 16 days of wildfire smoke this summer, according to a Thursday, May 7, outlook from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

The MPCA’s meteorologists are predicting an active air quality season, comparable to 2024.

A strong El Niño cycle is expected to bring warmer and drier conditions, punctuated with storms.

“Minnesotans rely on timely, accurate, science-based forecasts to plan their days and protect their health,” said MPCA Meteorologist Matt Taraldsen in the outlook.

“We want to give people the information they need to make smart choices — whether it’s rescheduling a run, protecting a child with asthma, or delaying the backyard chores. This summer, conditions are lining up for several air quality alert days, so staying ‘air-aware’ is more important than ever.”

The MPCA offers several tips for staying safe when air quality is poor:

• Breathing wildfire smoke can affect everyone’s health, but sensitive groups like older adults, all children under 18, pregnant people, and those with heart or lung conditions face higher risks
• Outdoor workers and people who participate in vigorous outdoor exercise are also at higher risk for adverse health reactions
• Learn what each Air Quality Index or AQI color means so you can protect yourself and those around you
• When air quality is unhealthy, stay indoors with windows and doors closed and filter the air
• If you must go outside when air quality is unhealthy, try to limit or reduce outdoor activity, especially exercise
• Have a backup indoor location or an alternate date for outdoor events in case of poor air quality
• Take care of yourself and others. Monitor sensitive groups (and your furry friends) for health impacts

The PCA posts air quality updates on its social media. You can also sign up for air quality alerts on the agency’s website.