Air Quality Alert Issued For Parts Of Minnesota: What To Know

ST. PAUL, MN — An air quality alert is in effect for parts of west central and northwest Minnesota as strong winds send dust into the air, creating conditions considered unhealthy for everyone.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issued the alert Thursday afternoon. It runs until 9 p.m. Friday, May 15.

The affected area includes East Grand Forks, Moorhead, Roseau, White Earth Nation and Red Lake Nation.

The MPCA said gusty winds up to 60 mph will create areas of blowing dust across western Minnesota. Air quality is expected to reach the red AQI category, which means unhealthy for everyone.

The alert is tied to PM10, a type of coarse particle pollution that includes dust, smoke, soot and mold spores. Because the particles are small, they can get into the lungs and cause health problems, according to the MPCA.

In Minnesota, PM10 often comes from farm fields, dried-up ponds and areas that were once flooded, the agency said.

What Red Air Quality Means

The MPCA said the sky may appear hazy or dirty during red air quality conditions. Visibility may be limited, and people may notice dust on surfaces or feel grit on their skin.

If light precipitation occurs with the blowing dust, it could leave white streaks on exposed surfaces after raindrops evaporate, according to the agency.

Health symptoms may include:

• Irritated eyes, nose and throat
• Coughing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath

The MPCA said people with existing heart or lung disease may experience more serious effects, including asthma attacks, heart attacks or strokes.

What To Do During The Alert

The MPCA recommends that everyone limit prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.

Sensitive groups should avoid prolonged or vigorous activity and consider moving outdoor events inside.

The agency also recommends:

• Closing windows
• Setting ventilation systems to recirculate air
• Considering a mask if going outdoors
• Reducing vehicle trips and idling
• Limiting driving on dirt roads
• Avoiding fireplaces, firepits, grills, candles and incense
• Avoiding gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment

Who Is Most At Risk

The MPCA said poor air quality can affect everyone, but some groups may experience symptoms sooner.

Sensitive groups include:

• People with asthma or other breathing conditions, including COPD
• People with heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes
• Pregnant people
• Children
• Older adults
• People with higher exposure include:
• Outdoor workers
• People doing vigorous activity outside
• People exercising or playing sports outdoors
• People without air conditioning who need to keep windows open
• People in housing that does not keep unhealthy air out
• People without permanent shelter

Anyone experiencing health effects related to poor air quality should contact a health care provider, the MPCA said.

People with severe symptoms, chest pain, trouble breathing, or symptoms of a heart attack or stroke should call 911 immediately.