Smog Alert! MPCA Issues Air Pollution Warning

Thursday, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) issued an air pollution health advisory for the southern two-thirds of Minnesota, including Burnsville and the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area.

The advisory will be in effect from Friday, March 8 through midday on Saturday, March 9. Officials at the MPCA say that air quality monitors show a marked increase in fine particle pollution. Fine particle pollution is generated by combustion activities, such as fossil fuel-based energy generation, motor vehicle exhaust, gasoline-powered yard and lawn equipment, and wood burning. 

The smog is most dangerous to those with preexisting cardiovascular or respiratory disease, the elderly, children, and individuals who participate in physically strenuous activities. The MPCA advises those likely to be affected to postpone or reduce vigorous activity and minimize exposure to local sources of air pollution (heavy duty vehicle traffic, wood fires, and candles). Even healthy people who are otherwise healthy may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing or fatigue when pollution levels increase. 

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