An air quality alert remains in effect through the end of Friday as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts southward across the state, leading to increased concentrations of fine particulate matter in the air.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the smoke is expected to impact air quality across a wide portion of the region, posing potential health risks to both the general population and especially to sensitive groups.
These sensitive groups include individuals with lung disease, asthma, or heart conditions, as well as children and older adults. Even members of the general public may experience mild health effects due to the elevated pollution levels.
The NWS notes that there is still some uncertainty about how far south the ground-level smoke will extend by Friday morning. However, a shift in wind direction—expected to become more southerly by then—should help push the smoke back to the north.
As a result, air quality is expected to gradually improve from south to north beginning Friday afternoon. Fine particulate matter levels are forecast to drop below the alert threshold by late Friday, allowing for a return to healthier air conditions heading into the weekend.
In the meantime, health officials are advising all residents to take precautions. Sensitive individuals are urged to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.
The general public is also encouraged to limit such activities, especially during periods of visibly hazy or smoky conditions.
Due to the ongoing air quality alert, Freeborn County has enacted a burn ban for both Thursday and Friday. Under this temporary restriction, no burn permits will be issued.
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While recreational fires that comply with local city ordinances are technically still allowed, officials strongly discourage them until air quality conditions improve.
Residents are advised to monitor local updates from the National Weather Service and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for the latest information on air quality levels and public health recommendations.
