Air Quality Alert: Elevated Ozone Levels in Minnesota This Weekend
An air quality alert has been issued for the Twin Cities metro area and various parts of Minnesota this weekend due to elevated ozone levels. The alert is in effect from noon on Saturday, June 6, through 11 p.m. on Sunday, June 7. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency predicts that air quality will reach the orange AQI category, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, in southern, central, and western Minnesota, including areas like the Twin Cities metro area, Brainerd, Alexandria, and more.
Ground-level ozone is expected to be high on Saturday and Sunday afternoons across the state due to mostly sunny skies, warm temperatures, and low humidity creating conditions for the production of ozone. The affected regions include Tribal Nations like Upper Sioux, Mille Lacs, Prairie Island, and others. People with asthma, breathing conditions, children, teenagers, and those engaging in extended physical activity are more likely to be affected by unhealthy ozone levels.
Symptoms of exposure to high ozone levels can include difficulty breathing deeply, shortness of breath, throat soreness, wheezing, coughing, or unusual fatigue. It is advised to limit outdoor activities during the afternoon hours, especially for sensitive groups. Individuals experiencing symptoms should use inhalers as directed and consult their healthcare provider. Minnesotans are encouraged to reduce pollution by limiting vehicle trips, using public transportation, avoiding gas-powered equipment, and refraining from backyard fires to help improve air quality.