MPCA Issues Statewide Air Quality Alert As Canadian Wildfire Smoke Chokes Minnesota Skies

MPCA Issues Statewide Air Quality Alert As Canadian Wildfire Smoke Chokes Minnesota Skies

ST. PAUL – July 12, 2025 — The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has issued a statewide air quality alert in response to a thick wave of smoke from Canadian wildfires, expected to affect all regions of Minnesota through 9 a.m. on Monday, July 14.

According to the MPCA, fine particle levels (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke are forecast to reach very unhealthy levels (purple AQI) in northern Minnesota, a rare and severe category that poses serious health risks to the entire population, not just vulnerable groups.

“Heavy ground-level smoke from wildfires in central Canada moved into northwest Minnesota early Friday morning behind a cold front,” the MPCA stated in a public release. “By Saturday afternoon, the entire state may be impacted. The heaviest smoke is expected across the northern half of the state.”

Smoke Conditions: What to Expect

Smoky, hazy skies with reduced visibility and a strong smell of smoke will be common throughout the weekend. While western Minnesota may begin to see air quality improvements by Sunday morning, the MPCA warns that another round of smoke may affect far northern areas Sunday night.

Communities Under Purple-Level Alert (Very Unhealthy)

Residents in the following areas should be especially cautious:
Brainerd, Alexandria, Hinckley, Bemidji, East Grand Forks, Moorhead, International Falls, Two Harbors, Hibbing, Ely, Duluth, Roseau, and the Tribal Nations of Mille Lacs, Leech Lake, White Earth, Red Lake, Grand Portage, and Fond du Lac.

In these areas, the MPCA recommends that everyone—regardless of age or health—avoid prolonged or heavy outdoor activity and remain indoors whenever possible.

What the AQI Colors Mean for You

🟣 Purple AQI: Very Unhealthy for All

• Visibility: Sky appears smoky or murky, with strong odors.
• Health Risks: Serious risks to everyone, including asthma attacks, heart attacks, and strokes.
• What to Do: Stay indoors, avoid exertion, reschedule or relocate outdoor events.

🔴 Red AQI: Unhealthy

• Visibility: Hazy skies, reduced distance visibility, noticeable smoke smell.
• Health Risks: Irritated eyes, throat, shortness of breath, and exacerbation of heart or lung disease.
• What to Do: Limit outdoor activities. Sensitive individuals should avoid strenuous exertion.

🟠 Orange AQI: Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups

• Visibility: Slight haze; smoke smell may be noticeable.
• Health Risks: People with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and pregnant individuals may feel symptoms.
• What to Do: Sensitive groups should reduce outdoor activity and have medications like inhalers readily available.

Who’s Most at Risk

Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of both respiratory and cardiovascular issues. The following groups are especially vulnerable:

• People with asthma, COPD, or other lung diseases
• Individuals with heart conditions
• Children and teens
• Older adults
• Pregnant individuals
• People who work or exercise outdoors
• Communities with limited access to healthcare or air filtration systems

Symptoms from smoke exposure can include coughing, chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigue.

Protecting Yourself and Others

• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.
• Use air purifiers or run air conditioning in recirculation mode.
• Avoid burning candles, using gas stoves, or vacuuming, which can further degrade indoor air.
• Wear N95 masks if you must be outside, especially in areas with purple or red AQI levels.
• Monitor real-time air quality updates at www.mn.gov/air or through the AirNow app.

As Minnesota continues to experience climate-driven air quality impacts, residents are urged to stay vigilant and make informed decisions to protect themselves and their loved ones. For more resources, visit the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's air quality page.

MinneapoliMedia