Minneapolis, Minnesota – Wildfire smoke from Canada will choke central Minnesota skies by early Wednesday, triggering a Red Air Quality Alert across the region.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, fine particle levels are expected to remain in the Red or Unhealthy category until 9 a.m. Wednesday. The Twin Cities metro, St. Cloud, and areas along the I-94 corridor are among the hardest hit. Sensitive groups, including children, seniors, and those with asthma or heart disease, are urged to avoid outdoor exertion.
Heavy ground-level smoke surged into northwest Minnesota Monday behind a cold front. That smoke is spreading southeast, affecting communities from Brainerd to Bloomington. The Air Quality Index (AQI) may climb above 150 in some areas — a level that can impact even healthy individuals during prolonged exposure.
Drivers are urged to keep windows closed and use recycled air settings in vehicles. Minimize outdoor activities, especially near dawn and dusk when smoke can settle closer to the ground. Avoid idling and limit lawn mowing or other combustion-based activity.
Wednesday will bring sunny skies and a high near 78°F with improving air quality by late morning. Winds will remain calm, allowing lingering smoke to slowly disperse. The good news: No severe storms are expected through midweek.
Five-Day Forecast: June 3–7
- Tuesday Night: Showers end early; widespread smoke. Low 54°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high 78°F. Smoke clearing by late morning.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, slight chance showers. High 77°F.
- Friday: Chance of showers. High 75°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, breezy. High near 78°F.
