Duluth, Minnesota – Heavy wildfire smoke continues to blanket northeastern Minnesota, triggering an air quality alert in effect until noon Wednesday, with conditions expected to reach “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” across Duluth, Ely, Hibbing, and surrounding areas.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, fine particle pollution is being carried northward from Wisconsin and Michigan, settling heavily across the Northland. Smoke levels are forecast to remain in the orange AQI range through early Wednesday, with reduced air quality possible from southeastern to central Minnesota as well.
Sensitive individuals, including those with asthma, heart disease, or children and seniors, are urged to limit outdoor activity. Overnight ventilation should be minimized—keep windows shut to prevent indoor exposure.
Tuesday: Hazy skies and mild smoke continue. Highs reach the mid-70s with light easterly winds.
Wednesday: Thunderstorms are possible after 1 p.m., especially into the evening. Breezy, with highs near 78°F.
Thursday: Warmer and drier. Slight chance of a storm. Highs reach the low 80s.
Friday: Heat builds again. Expect highs in the upper 80s with continued storm chances.
Saturday: Humid, highs near 87°F. Afternoon storms likely.
Expect fluctuating air quality through midweek and a transition to heat-driven storm activity by late week. Additional alerts may be issued if smoke persists or storms intensify.
Five Day Forecast for Duluth, Minnesota:
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high 75°F. Areas of smoke after 8 p.m.
- Wednesday: Showers and storms possible, breezy. High 78°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, isolated thunderstorm. High 83°F.
- Friday: Warm and humid, chance of storms. High 87°F.
- Saturday: Afternoon storms likely. High near 87°F.
