Duluth, Minn. – Thick smoke from Canadian wildfires is blanketing northeast Minnesota this morning, triggering an Air Quality Alert through 6 p.m. Friday for areas including Duluth, Ely, Hibbing, and Grand Marais.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, fine particle pollution from wildfire smoke has pushed the Air Quality Index (AQI) into the Red or Unhealthy category across St. Louis, Cook, Lake, and Carlton counties. This means that even healthy individuals could start to feel the effects, and those with asthma, heart disease, or other conditions should take extra care.
Smoke began pushing into the region early Thursday and is expected to linger due to a persistent high-pressure system. A second, heavier wave could move in Friday behind a cold front, spreading across a larger portion of the state. Overnight smoke concentrations may worsen near the North Shore due to light winds and stable conditions.
People are urged to stay indoors, limit outdoor exertion, and keep windows closed overnight. Reducing vehicle use and avoiding outdoor burning can also help limit additional air pollution.
The alert remains in effect until 6 p.m. Friday. Additional advisories could be issued if smoke persists or worsens over the weekend.
