Wildfire Smoke Forecast Raises Concerns Across Minnesota

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is expecting another smoky summer across the Great Lakes. In recent years, Canadian Wildfire Smoke has covered much of the Northern United States, as the jet stream carries the smoke from the fires in Canada down into the lower 48. Because of this, the MPCA has issued a warning in its forecast as the smoke can be dangerous.

More Air Quality Alerts Issued Than Ever Before In Minnesota

Last year was a very smoky and hazy summer, which really dampened our precious summers in Minnesota. It was so bad that the Minnesota and Wisconsin legislatures sent a letter demanding that Canada do something about controlling their wildfires.

Fighting wildfires is very expensive, especially in these very remote areas in the Canadian Boreal Forest. In many cases, they just let these remote fires burn. When the wind conditions are just right, it can blanket the region with thick, dense smoke.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is forecasting 12-16 days of wildfire smoke impact this summer. They say to expect warmer, drier conditions, punctuated by storms.

Health Risks From Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can pose health risks, especially for people at risk. Even healthy people are affected.

In the past 5 years, more air quality alerts have been issued due to wildfire smoke than ever before, according to the Minnesota Department of Health. 

Read More: Wildfire Smoke Is The New Normal For Minnesota Summers

Short-term effects of wildfire smoke can happen even with just one day of smoke. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, irritated throat, eyes, and sinuses. Headaches are another common affliction. More seriously, wildfire smoke can cause heart issues and strokes. Long-term exposure can lead to low birth weight, increased risk of cancer, and mental health issues.