Duluth, Minnesota – An air quality alert has been issued for western and central Minnesota, including the Twin Cities and surrounding areas, due to expected high levels of ground-level ozone. The alert will remain in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Monday, May 12.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), ground-level ozone is anticipated to reach high concentrations in the afternoon hours, when sunny skies, warm temperatures, and low humidity provide ideal conditions for ozone formation. The pollutant is expected to be at its highest between 2 and 5 p.m., with areas such as St. Cloud, Brainerd, and Mankato likely to experience significant air quality concerns.
Cities such as Minneapolis, St. Paul, Alexandria, and Moorhead are also included in the alert zone, where residents may notice hazy skies and less-than-ideal air quality. Fine particle levels are expected to reach the Orange AQI category, a level deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups. People with respiratory conditions, young children, and the elderly are advised to limit outdoor activities or avoid strenuous exercise during this time.
In addition, air quality will improve in the late evening as temperatures drop, but another alert could be issued for Tuesday, May 13, depending on weather conditions. Residents are encouraged to reduce car trips, avoid outdoor burning, and limit vehicle idling to help reduce air pollution during the alert period.
