Here’s The Air Quality Forecast For The Week Of June 9 In The Twin Cities And Greater Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Air quality across Minnesota is expected to improve this week after a blast of wildfire smoke sent pollution levels soaring on Sunday, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

The MPCA said air quality in the Twin Cities on Sunday reached an AQI of 107, which is classified as "unhealthy for sensitive groups" due to fine particle pollution. That prompted a statewide air quality alert for the day.

On Monday, the MPCA says air quality is in the "moderate" range for particle pollution, while ozone levels remain "good."

Looking ahead, the forecast shows "good" air quality across the board on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

Air quality forecast for the Twin Cities:

• Monday, June 9: Moderate particulate pollution, Good ozone
• Tuesday, June 10: Good particle pollution, Good ozone
• Wednesday, June 11: Good particle pollution, Good ozone

The MPCA does not release its forecast beyond three days.

Sunday’s smoke arrived behind a cold front, carrying wildfire pollution from British Columbia and Alberta. While the main wave moved fairly quickly, the MPCA noted that additional smoke could return midweek, especially if Canadian wildfires remain active.

The MPCA also said rainfall across the wildfire zones in Manitoba and Saskatchewan could limit smoke production, though that remains uncertain.

Another cold front is expected to move through Minnesota Tuesday into Wednesday, which could bring another round of wildfire smoke if conditions line up, according to the MPCA’s extended outlook.

National Weather Service forecast from the MSP Airport:

• Monday: Mostly cloudy in the morning, then clearing. High near 66. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph.
• Tuesday: Sunny, high near 82. The NWS says areas of smoke are possible around midday.
• Wednesday: A 30 percent chance of showers after 1 p.m. High near 79.
• Thursday night/Friday: Showers and thunderstorms are likely both days, with highs in the upper 60s and low 70s, according to the NWS.

As of Monday morning, the MPCA says conditions are not expected to reach alert levels again this week, but that could change if wildfire activity increases.

Health advice from officials

Moderate air quality means most people can be outside safely. However, those with asthma, heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and anyone active outdoors may want to limit prolonged exertion when particle pollution is elevated.

When the AQI is good, there are no expected health risks for anyone.