An air quality warning has been issued for all of Minnesota due to wildfire smoke

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an air quality alert. Air quality across Minnesota is expected to be in the red AQI category, which is unhealthy for everyone.

The warning goes into effect on Sunday, May 12th at 11am and lasts until Monday, May 13th at 12pm. Very heavy smoke from wildfires in northeastern British Columbia has reached northern Minnesota and will sweep south across the state on Sunday behind a cold front.

Smoke will reach central Minnesota Sunday afternoon and southern Minnesota Sunday evening. Although smoke will clear the northern half of the state overnight and air quality there will improve.

Smoke will continue in southern Minnesota until midday Monday and air quality will gradually improve throughout the day as the smoke begins to clear.

In the red zone, sensitive groups should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion and limit their time outdoors. Sensitive groups include people with asthma or other respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People with heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes. Pregnant women, children and older adults are also at risk.

More serious health effects may occur in sensitive or more heavily exposed individuals. Some of these effects include worsening of existing heart or lung disease, as well as respiratory and cardiovascular disease. There is also the possibility of an asthma attack, heart attack or stroke.

Everyone should limit prolonged or heavy exertion and time outdoors. Anyone may experience symptoms such as irritated eyes, nose and throat, cough, chest tightness or shortness of breath.

Reduce outdoor physical activity, take more breaks, and avoid vigorous activity to reduce exposure. Sensitive and more exposed people should avoid prolonged or strenuous activities, but also consider shortening, postponing or moving outdoor events indoors.

Further information on the current air quality warning can be found here. Further information about the current weather conditions can be found here.