Duluth, Minnesota – Air quality across northeastern Minnesota will remain poor through 6 p.m. Monday, as wildfire smoke lingers over the region and temperatures climb into the upper 80s.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, an Air Quality Alert remains in effect for Cook, Lake, St. Louis, and Carlton counties. The Air Quality Index is expected to reach the Red or Unhealthy category, especially for sensitive groups such as children, older adults, and those with heart or lung conditions.
Smoke from Canadian wildfires is settling over the Arrowhead region, keeping skies hazy from Duluth to Ely and into the Boundary Waters. Breezy southerly winds Monday afternoon may carry in more smoke, prompting officials to urge residents to avoid strenuous outdoor activity and keep windows closed overnight.
In addition to smoke, hot and humid weather will grip the area, with highs near 86°F in Duluth. The National Weather Service warns that this combination may worsen breathing conditions and raise fire weather concerns. Showers and thunderstorms are expected late Monday night into Tuesday, bringing a slight chance of localized flash flooding.
Air quality should gradually improve by Tuesday, but intermittent smoke is possible all week. More alerts could be issued if conditions worsen.
📅 Five-Day Forecast for Duluth, MN
- Monday: Hazy, breezy, high near 86°F. Smoke possible. Winds SSW 10–15 mph, gusts to 25 mph.
- Tuesday: Showers and storms likely. High 83°F. Winds NNW 10–15 mph.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, cooler. High near 73°F. Calm winds.
- Thursday: Slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, high 72°F.
- Friday: Rain chances continue, high 71°F. Breezy, shifting winds.
