Duluth, Minn. – Thick wildfire smoke drifting in from Canada could choke northeastern Minnesota skies through Friday evening, prompting health alerts and reducing visibility across several communities.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, an Air Quality Alert is in effect from 8 a.m. Thursday to 6 p.m. Friday for areas including Duluth, International Falls, Brainerd, and parts of the Iron Range. This is the first of multiple waves of smoke expected to sweep in from Saskatchewan and Manitoba wildfires, with impacts likely lasting through the weekend.
The agency warns that the smoke could reduce air quality to unhealthy levels for all populations, especially those with respiratory conditions. Visibility may drop along highways such as U.S. 53 and Highway 2, and residents are urged to limit outdoor activities, close windows, and run air purifiers where possible.
Flin Flon, Manitoba, is already under evacuation orders due to aggressive fire activity. The National Weather Service says rain and cooler temperatures are needed to slow the fire spread.
Additional air quality alerts may follow, as more smoke is forecast to arrive Friday and again over the weekend. Residents statewide should monitor local conditions and be prepared for extended air quality concerns through at least Sunday.
