MINNESOTA — The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has issued a sweeping air quality alert across much of the state as ground-level ozone and wildfire smoke continue to pose health risks. The alert affects millions of Minnesotans across central, western, and northeastern regions, including the Twin Cities, due to forecasted pollution levels reaching unhealthy thresholds for sensitive populations.

Ozone Alert in Central, Southern, and Western Minnesota

From 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13, an air quality alert will be in effect due to elevated levels of ground-level ozone. The warning spans a large portion of the state, including:

• Twin Cities metro
• Brainerd
• St. Cloud
• Albert Lea
• Alexandria
• Marshall
• Mankato
• Worthington
• Ortonville
• Bemidji
• East Grand Forks
• Moorhead
• International Falls
• Roseau
• Upper Sioux, Mille Lacs, Prairie Island, Leech Lake, and Red Lake tribal areas

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in these areas is expected to reach the orange category, which signals air that is unhealthy for sensitive groups such as children, elderly adults, and people with respiratory conditions like asthma.

According to the MPCA, a combination of sunshine, warm temperatures, and low humidity is accelerating the chemical reactions between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), resulting in higher ozone levels near the ground. (MPCA official alert)

Wildfire Smoke Warning in Northeast Minnesota

Separately, an air quality alert due to wildfire smoke is in effect from 5 p.m. on Monday, May 12 through 3 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13 in northeast Minnesota, including:

• Hibbing
• Ely
• Lake and St. Louis counties

This warning stems from smoke plumes originating from the Camp House and Jenkins Creek wildfires, which are actively burning in the Superior National Forest near Brimson, approximately 25 miles north-northwest of Two Harbors.

Southerly winds are carrying the smoke across northern Minnesota, leading to increased concentrations of fine particles (PM2.5) in the air. The AQI in these areas is also forecasted to be in the orange range, presenting health risks for vulnerable populations. (MPCA wildfire smoke alert)

Health Guidelines and Recommendations

The MPCA and public health officials are urging residents in affected areas to take the following precautions:

• Limit outdoor physical activity, especially in the afternoon and evening when ozone levels peak.
• Stay indoors and keep windows closed if you have asthma or other breathing conditions.
• Use air conditioning or air purifiers to maintain safe indoor air.
• Avoid areas with heavy traffic, campfires, or wood stoves, as these can worsen local air quality.
• Monitor symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath, and use prescribed medication if needed.

People are especially advised to be cautious if they are part of a sensitive group, including young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic lung or heart disease.

How to Stay Updated

Residents can track real-time air quality conditions through several resources:

• MPCA Air Quality Index
• AirNow.gov
• EnviroFlash
• AirNow Mobile App: Download for Android or iOS to receive push notifications about air quality in your area

A Reminder for Ongoing Climate Vigilance

Minnesota’s recent air quality challenges are part of a growing pattern linked to climate change, increased wildfire activity, and urban pollution. Experts warn that such alerts may become more frequent during warmer months, especially as wildfires rage across North America and high-pressure systems trap pollutants close to the ground.

By staying informed and adjusting outdoor habits during poor air quality days, residents can reduce health risks and contribute to long-term public safety.

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