Headline:
Air Quality Alert issued July 17 at 12:36PM CDT by NWS Duluth MN
Event:
Air Quality Alert
Urgency:
Unknown
Effective:
July 17, 2026 - 10:36am
Expires:
July 20, 2026 - 9:00am
Description:
* WHAT...The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an Air
Quality Alert for fine particles pollution. The Air Quality Index
(AQI) is expected to reach the Purple or Very Unhealthy category.
* WHERE...Northeast Minnesota.
* WHEN...Until 6 PM CDT Friday.
* IMPACTS...Everyone is more likely to be affected.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...While heavy smoke retreats across portions
of north central and northeastern Minnesota today, heavy smoke is
expected to persist across much of northeastern Minnesota through
the weekend and into Monday. A separate area of heavy smoke will
move across northwestern Minnesota this morning and afternoon.
Northwestern Minnesota should see improved air quality by this
evening. Additional heavy smoke may move south from Canada this
weekend, and the air quality alert may need to be extended into
east central and southeastern Minnesota.
Instruction:
Sensitive groups, such as people with lung disease (including
asthma), heart disease, and children and older adults, should
avoid all physical activity outdoors. The general public should
avoid 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.
Area Description:
Koochiching; North Itasca; South Itasca; Northern Aitkin
Forcast Office:
NWS Duluth MN
Sender: