Air Quality Alert Issued for Monday in Western and Central Minnesota Due to High Ozone Levels
Provided by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)
TWIN CITIES, MINNESOTA - The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has issued an air quality alert for much of western and central Minnesota for Monday, May 12, due to expected elevated levels of ground-level ozone. The alert will be in effect from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and includes the Twin Cities metro area, as well as cities such as Brainerd, Alexandria, Albert Lea, Marshall, Worthington, St. Cloud, Ortonville, Mankato, Bemidji, East Grand Forks, Moorhead, and Roseau. The advisory also extends to the tribal nations of Upper Sioux, Mille Lacs, Prairie Island, Leech Lake, and Red Lake.
According to the MPCA, air quality is forecast to reach the orange category on the Air Quality Index (AQI), which means it will be unhealthy for sensitive groups. Ground-level ozone concentrations are expected to rise during the afternoon and early evening hours due to a combination of mostly sunny skies, warm temperatures, and low humidity — ideal conditions for the formation of ozone through chemical reactions between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the atmosphere.
What Is Ground-Level Ozone?
Ground-level ozone is a harmful air pollutant formed when sunlight triggers a reaction between VOCs and NOx. Unlike the protective ozone layer in the upper atmosphere, ground-level ozone can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate existing lung conditions.
Ozone levels tend to peak in the afternoon and early evening, when sunlight and heat are at their strongest. Conversely, levels tend to drop in the morning, late evening, and overnight.
Who Is Most at Risk?
The MPCA advises that certain groups are more susceptible to the effects of elevated ozone levels, including:
People with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, or emphysema
Children and teenagers
People of all ages engaged in prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity
Individuals who are particularly sensitive to ozone, even without underlying health issues
Symptoms of ozone exposure may include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, sore throat, fatigue, or difficulty breathing. Those with pre-existing conditions are encouraged to use their rescue inhalers as needed and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen.
Recommendations and Safety Tips
To reduce health risks and minimize the formation of ozone pollution, the MPCA recommends the following:
For Personal Health:
Limit strenuous outdoor activity, especially in the afternoon and early evening
Stay indoors in air-conditioned or well-ventilated spaces
Avoid busy roads and open fires
Keep medication handy, particularly if you have asthma or another respiratory condition
Follow your asthma action plan, or consult a healthcare provider to develop one
To Reduce Pollution:
Limit car trips and avoid idling
Refuel vehicles in the early morning or evening
Use public transportation, carpool, bike, or walk when possible
Avoid using gas-powered lawn and garden tools on air alert days
Refrain from backyard burning
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to stay updated by checking the MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage and signing up for EnviroFlash email alerts. The EPA AirNow mobile app, available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, also provides real-time air quality updates.
More information about air quality and health tips can be found on the MPCA’s Air Quality and Health webpage.
Looking Ahead
With similar weather conditions forecast for Tuesday, the MPCA notes that another air quality alert may be issued. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their health and reduce air pollution.
