Duluth, Minnesota – A surge of thick wildfire smoke from Canada is blanketing Minnesota tonight through Sunday, sending air quality to dangerous levels and drastically reducing visibility across much of the state.
According to the National Weather Service Duluth and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Air Quality Alerts are in effect through Sunday for every Minnesota county. The first wave of smoke is moving in from the northwest, impacting cities like Bemidji, International Falls, Brainerd, and Duluth by Friday evening. A second, even denser band is expected to arrive Saturday, spreading hazardous smoke and “Very Unhealthy” air statewide, including the Twin Cities, Rochester, and Mankato.
Residents will see and smell smoke indoors and outdoors. Health officials urge everyone—especially those with heart or lung conditions, young children, and seniors—to avoid outdoor activity, keep windows shut, and use filtered air indoors. Expect limited visibility on roads, with delays possible on I-35, Highway 61, and throughout the Arrowhead region. Outdoor events and youth sports may face delays or cancellations.
The air quality is forecast to improve slowly late Sunday as winds shift. Further advisories are possible if smoke lingers. Residents should check local alerts for the latest updates and be prepared for continued impacts through the weekend.
