Wildfire Smoke Causes Air Quality Concerns Across Northern Minnesota 8/18

Photo byNational Weather Service

Air Quality Alert Issued Through Monday

Grand Forks, ND - The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Air Quality Alert for north-central and northwestern Minnesota, extending until noon on Monday. According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), heavy ground-level smoke has moved into the region, pushing air quality levels into the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" category.

Smoke Impacting Vulnerable Populations

The alert, issued late Friday, warns that smoke from northern wildfires will linger in the region due to northerly winds behind a strong low-pressure system. This is expected to affect areas including Bemidji, Crookston, East Grand Forks, Moorhead, and Roseau. Sensitive groups such as people with lung or heart conditions, older adults, and children may experience negative health effects.

Residents are urged to limit outdoor activities, particularly those that involve prolonged or heavy exertion. Health experts recommend keeping windows closed overnight to prevent smoke from infiltrating homes.

Hazardous Weather Outlook: Reduced Air Quality Tonight

In addition to the air quality alert, the NWS issued a hazardous weather outlook for parts of eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, citing potential air quality impacts from wildfire smoke through the weekend. However, the probability for widespread hazardous weather is currently low.

While spotter activation is not anticipated at this time, authorities are closely monitoring air quality levels and urge residents to stay informed.

Precautionary Actions Recommended

Health officials are advising the public to take several precautions during this period of deteriorating air quality:

• Avoid outdoor burning and reduce the use of residential wood-burning devices.
• Minimize vehicle trips and idling.
• Consider wearing masks outdoors if you belong to a sensitive group.

Residents can monitor current air quality conditions and sign up for updates via the MPCA and EPA’s AirNow app. This situation is being closely monitored, and additional advisories may be issued as conditions evolve.

Weather Watches, Warnings & Advisories are frequently updated. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news sources and NOAA All Hazards Radio.