An air quality alert has been issued until 8 p.m. Monday, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
The alert began on noon Sunday for east central and southeast Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metro along with St. Cloud, Hinckley, Mankato, Albert Lea, Rochester and the tribal nations of Prairie Island, Leech Lake and Mille Lacs.
Ground-level ozone projections are high for the holiday weekend, as a combination of sun, low humidity and warm temperatures is hospitable for the chemical reactions that turn pollutants into ozone.
The agency said air quality is expected to reach the Orange AQI category, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, including:
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Those with asthma or other breathing conditions.
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Children and teenagers.
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People doing heavy or extended sports or outdoor activities.
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Those sensitive to ozone.
Recommended precautions for those of any age or physical condition include:
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Take it easy and listen to your body
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Limit, change, or postpone your physical activity
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Stay away from busy roads and wood fires if possible
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Keep rescue inhaler with you if you have breathing conditions.
For the latest air conditions, visit the agency’s website.
