Minnesota Unknown Air Quality Alert | Effective 07/16/2026 14:21

Headline: 
Air Quality Alert issued July 16 at 4:21PM CDT by NWS Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
Event: 
Air Quality Alert
Urgency: 
Unknown
Effective: 
July 16, 2026 - 2:21pm
Expires: 
July 17, 2026 - 9:00am
Description: 
* WHAT...The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an Air Quality Alert for fine particles pollution. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to reach the Purple or Very Unhealthy category. * WHERE...Central Minnesota * WHEN...Until 11 AM CDT Friday. * IMPACTS...The risk of health effects is increased for everyone. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Heavy smoke will continue to disperse and retreat to the north this evening into Friday morning, with improvements in air quality from south to north with time. On Friday, an area of low pressure moves through the region and further improves air quality for all but northeastern Minnesota. the air quality alert expires at 11am for most of the state, but will continue through Monday for northeastern Minnesota.
Instruction: 
Sensitive groups, such as people with lung disease (including asthma), heart disease, and children and older adults, should avoid all physical activities outdoors. The general public should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Reduce or eliminate activities that contribute to air pollution, such as outdoor burning, and use of residential wood burning devices. Reduce vehicle trips and vehicle idling as much as possible. Keep windows closed overnight to prevent smoke from getting indoors.
Area Description: 
Douglas; Todd; Morrison; Mille Lacs; Kanabec; Stearns; Benton; Sherburne; Isanti; Chisago; Wright; Hennepin; Anoka; Ramsey; Washington; Dakota; Goodhue
Forcast Office: 
NWS Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN