Bemidji, Minn. – Heavy smoke from Canadian wildfires will push into Minnesota early Friday, triggering an air quality alert from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for most of the northern half of the state, with conditions reaching Very Unhealthy levels in the northwest.
According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to spike into the Purple range across areas like Moorhead, Crookston, Roseau, and Bemidji, while parts of north-central Minnesota including Brainerd and International Falls will see Red (Unhealthy) conditions. The smoke will arrive in waves, driven by a cold front sweeping in from the west.
People with lung or heart conditions, older adults, and children should stay indoors and avoid physical activity outdoors. Even healthy residents are advised to limit prolonged exertion. Windows should remain closed overnight to prevent indoor smoke exposure.
This is the worst air quality event for northern Minnesota so far this summer, and another, more widespread smoke band could hit Saturday, possibly extending the alert. Relief is expected Sunday as cleaner air moves in from the west.
