Minneapolis, Minnesota –Wildfire smoke continues to blanket Minnesota, keeping air quality in the “unhealthy” range for millions through Monday as winds push hazardous particles southward across the state.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and National Weather Service, a statewide Air Quality Alert remains in effect until noon Monday, with fine particle levels at or above Red/Unhealthy category in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, and surrounding regions. Sensitive groups—including children, seniors, and those with heart or lung issues—face elevated health risks during this period.
Residents in the Twin Cities, St. Cloud, and Mankato should limit time outdoors, especially if symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath develop. Drivers may also notice reduced visibility on roads including I-35, I-94, and U.S. Highway 52. Local schools and sporting events may be affected, and officials recommend keeping windows closed and using filtered air indoors. The alert stretches from western Minnesota into central and southern counties, with the heaviest smoke expected overnight into Saturday morning.
While some gradual clearing is expected by Sunday afternoon, the risk of unhealthy air may persist into early Monday, particularly in central and southern Minnesota. A new round of scattered thunderstorms is possible by Monday night into Tuesday, bringing some relief but also the threat of lightning and localized downpours.
The current Air Quality Alert is set to expire by noon Monday, but additional advisories may be issued if wildfire smoke lingers. Check the latest updates from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and stay weather aware through Tuesday as storms return.
Five Day Forecast for Minneapolis, MN:
- Saturday: Areas of smoke before 11 a.m., mostly sunny, high 80°F.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, haze/smoke possible early, high 78°F.
- Monday: Increasing clouds, 20% chance of thunderstorms, high 81°F.
- Tuesday: Slight chance of showers and storms, high 81°F.
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, more showers possible, high 86°F.
