The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) tracks data relating to air quality alerts caused by wildfire smoke, and recent years show an increase in these events. Matt Taraldsen, Risk Evaluation & Air Modeling Unit supervisor and meteorologist, shared that so far, in 2025, Minnesota has experienced 31 air quality alerts as of August 1. Since data collection began in 2008, 2025 is the year with the third most alerts issued so far, behind 2023, which had 41, and 27 in 2021. In contrast, years such as 2022, 2020, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2010, 2009, and 2008 had zero alerts.

The severity of these alerts has also increased. Taraldsen said that before 2021, all alerts were "orange level," or unhealthy for sensitive populations, or lower. However, in 2021, the state saw about 50% "red" alerts and one "purple" alert. In 2023,  two "purple" alerts for "very unhealthy" air and about 60% "red" alerts were issued. This year, all alert colors have been recorded, including one "hazardous" alert.

Additionally, Grand Portage reached a state record for the highest hourly concentration of fine particulate on June 3, 2025. 

If this current alert seems like it's been especially long, it's because it is. "This ties for the longest alert at 5 days. This is the first time we’ve had one this long for multiple areas, though. The last (and only other) 5-day alert was for St. Louis County in 2021 for the Greenwood Fire," he said. 

Jessie Carr, DrPH, MPH, supervisor of Environmental Epidemiology at the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), and Cook County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) Supervisor Grace Grinager shared some resources and tips for staying safe during periods of prolonged exposure to poor air quality in summer, especially without air conditioning for air filtration or cooling. 

Carr outlines a summary of key action steps for individuals to follow to protect themselves and their pets during periods of poor air quality:

• Monitor air quality conditions.
• Sign up for air quality alerts here.
• Download the AirNow mobile app to get current local conditions.
  
  
• Stay indoors if you can.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Run AC if you have it, or consider making a Corsi-Rosenthal box, which is a do-it-yourself air purifier made of a box fan and a few air filters.
  
  
• Keep indoor air clean.
• Avoid smoking, frying or broiling food, burning candles or incense, using a gas stove, or vacuuming. 
  
• Don’t run bathroom or kitchen fans that pull air in from outside. 
  
  
• If you must be outside, limit strenuous activities.
• Wear a well-fitting N95 or P100 respirator. Don’t rely on dust, cloth, or surgical masks. 
• Take breaks in clean-air spaces when possible. 
• In your car, close windows and set the ventilation to “recirculate.” 
• MDH has a resource for schools and child care to help them lower the risk of negative health impacts for children: Minnesota Outdoor Air Quality Guidance for Schools and Child Care.
  
  
• Protect outdoor workers. Outdoor workers often can’t choose to avoid smoke. Employers should consider: 
• Monitoring air quality often. 
• Rescheduling or relocating work when air quality is poor. 
• Providing clean air breaks and protective equipment. 
• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Wildfires web page provides information to help workers and employers prepare for a wildfire. 
  
  
• Take care of yourself and others.
• Take it easy, listen to your body, and pay attention to your symptoms. 
• Monitor your body for any changes in your breathing or health. 
• Check on neighbors, especially elders and people who live alone. 
• People with asthma should review and follow their asthma action plan. Asthma Resources – MDH - If you have asthma or other breathing conditions, like COPD, make sure you have your rescue inhaler with you. 
• Call your doctor or health care provider if you’re having trouble breathing or if your symptoms worsen. 
  
  

Grinager says that KN-95 masks are available at the Public Health and Human Services front desk within the Cook County Courthouse. Additionally, the department recommends the AirNow app, which provides up-to-date air quality forecasts. Local resources such as Boreal Community Media and WTIP share updates on the air quality forecast as they become available. 

PHHS also recommends creating a "clean air room" by closing all windows and doors (ensuring that all exits remain clear and available in case of emergency), and running fans, air filters, or portable/window AC units if available. Learn more about clean air rooms here.

• Minnesota Department of Health Wildfire Smoke Page
• Cook County Public Health and Human Services Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality Page