Minnesota is currently experiencing an extended period of poor air quality, with forecasters indicating that the state is on track to surpass last year’s record for air quality alerts.
Ryan Lueck, an air quality forecaster, stated that Minnesota has already issued 16 air quality alerts this year. This number is approaching the record of 21 alerts set in 2023, suggesting the state may break this record by the end of the year.
The persistent smoky conditions are attributed to a drought that began in central and western Canada during the spring. Despite pleasant temperatures expected in the coming days, Lueck expressed doubt about significant improvements in air quality over the weekend.
“There might potentially be times when we do fluctuate a bit where the air quality relatively gets better, and then relatively gets worse,” Lueck explained. “But really we have high pressure that’s moving in and that high pressure is going to keep this smoky air mass in place without much of a change.”
High temperatures are predicted to remain in the 70s and low 80s through early next week, accompanied by lower humidity levels. The next chance for rain in the metro area is anticipated from Sunday into monday, as warmer and more humid air moves in ahead of a new weather system.
About the Author: Jason Rantala joined WCCO as a reporter in june 2023. A native of Minnesota, he is dedicated to sharing the stories of his home state.