Duluth, Minn. – Thick smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to push air quality in northeast Minnesota to unhealthy levels Thursday morning through Friday evening, prompting state officials to issue a regional Air Quality Alert.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is projected to reach the Red category—unhealthy for all groups—from 8 a.m. Thursday to 6 p.m. Friday. The affected area includes Duluth, Hibbing, Ely, Grand Marais, and surrounding cities.
The smoke, driven south by shifting winds and a cold front, will drift across Lake Superior’s north shore and inland areas starting overnight. A second wave is forecast to arrive Friday, bringing additional particulate matter from Manitoba and Saskatchewan fires. The National Weather Service warns that reduced visibility and lingering smoke could continue into early Saturday.
Sensitive groups—including people with asthma, heart disease, or respiratory issues—should avoid prolonged outdoor activity. Officials recommend keeping windows closed, minimizing vehicle trips, and avoiding use of wood-burning devices.
Air quality conditions may fluctuate, and additional alerts could be issued as the smoke pattern evolves. Residents can track AQI updates and health recommendations at https://www.pca.state.mn.us.
Warnings remain in effect until 6 p.m. Friday, with lingering impacts possible into the weekend.
