* 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 Red or Unhealthy category.

* WHERE...Southeast Minnesota.

* WHEN...Until 9 AM CDT Monday.

* IMPACTS...Some members of the general public may experience
health effects. Sensitive groups, such as people with lung disease
(including asthma), heart disease, and children and older adults,
may experience health effects.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Heavy ground-level smoke from wildfires
in central Canada moved into northwest Minnesota early Friday
morning behind a cold front. This first band of smoke is currently
impacting northern Minnesota as it moves east during the day
Friday. Air quality will worsen across northeast Minnesota Friday
evening as smoke arrives over the region. A second round of smoke
will move into northwest Minnesota late Friday evening. This smoke
will be more widespread as it moves southeast overnight, and by
Saturday afternoon the entire state may be impacted. The heaviest
smoke on Saturday will be across the northern half of the state.
Air quality will begin to improve across western Minnesota Sunday
morning as cleaner air moves in from the west. By Sunday evening,
the smoke should be gone from most of the state. Another round of
smoke is possible across far northern Minnesota Sunday night.

Sensitive groups, such as people with lung disease (including
asthma), heart disease, and children and older adults, should avoid
prolonged or heavy exertion. The general public should limit
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.