The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) announced the alert would be in effect from 11 p.m. on Saturday until 11 p.m. on Sunday.

Heavy surface-level smoke is expected to enter Minnesota following a cold front, impacting air quality throughout the state. The MPCA advises that the air quality index will reach the orange category, signaling unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups.

As the smoke moves west to east overnight Saturday, Minnesotans can expect hazy skies and the smell of smoke in the air. By Sunday afternoon or evening, conditions are anticipated to improve as the smoke clears out.

Those most at risk include individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease, children, older adults, and pregnant people. The MPCA recommends that these groups limit outdoor activity during the alert to protect their health.

To help lessen the impact on air quality, Minnesotans are encouraged to avoid activities that contribute to pollution, such as unnecessary vehicle trips, idling cars, and outdoor fires.

For ongoing updates on air quality conditions, residents can refer to the MPCA's resources.