Minnesota Wildfires

MPR News keeps track of real-time wildfire updates so you can keep yourself and your family safe. Check out current air quality conditions with our map of the latest AQI sensor readings, or scroll down for other news about wildfires in Minnesota.

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July 3, 2023 4:00 AM

Amid dry conditions, DNR warns of danger from campfires, fireworks

Dry conditions in Minnesota increase the risk of wildfires during the Fourth of July holiday, urging caution with campfires and fireworks, as they are the primary cause of wildfires and alternative activities without flames should be considered.

by Kirsti Marohn

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June 29, 2023 2:04 PM

A big swath of the U.S. is under red and purple air quality alerts from Canada's smoke

In Madison, Wis., the air quality was measured at 242 Thursday morning — a “very unhealthy“ purple alert rating that many other communities shared, particularly in the Midwest.

by Bill Chappell

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June 29, 2023 6:09 AM

Improving air quality Thursday with isolated thunder

Air quality will continue to improve Thursday with a shift in the winds. Highs will be well into the 80s with isolated late afternoon thunder possible, especially north.

by Sven Sundgaard

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June 29, 2023 4:00 AM

Air quality alerts raise concerns, frustrations about summer activities for kids

With a record-high 23 air quality alerts so far this year in Minnesota, questions of how to safely participate in valued outdoor summer activities linger — along with the smoke.

by Olivia Stevens and Kyra Miles

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June 28, 2023 2:30 PM

More unhealthy air in southern, central Minnesota as wildfire smoke continues

The air quality alert is in effect for most of the lower half of the state through midnight. Everyone in southern Minnesota is advised to limit time outdoors and exercise.

by Emily Bright, Sven Sundgaard and Amy Felegy

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June 28, 2023 12:30 PM

Minnesota isn't alone: Air quality plummets across Midwest due to wildfires

Along with Minnesota, Chicago saw its air quality plummet, while other cities including Detroit, Milwaukee and Pittsburgh were experiencing unhealthy air quality levels.

by Joe Hernandez, Rachel Treisman, Emily Olson and MPR News Staff

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June 28, 2023 9:40 AM

Poor air quality Wednesday; strong storms possible

Air quality will remain an issue as smoke lingers in eastern and southern Minnesota. An air quality alert continues essentially through midnight Wednesday.

by Sven Sundgaard

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June 27, 2023 2:10 PM

Minnesota sets record for most air quality alerts in a season

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issued a record 23rd air quality alert of the year Tuesday morning, as yet another round of smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts across southern and eastern parts of the state.

by Olivia Stevens

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June 21, 2023 7:52 AM

Spice Lake Fire 100% contained; BWCAW closure area scaled back

Officials reported Wednesday the Spice Lake Fire in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is now 100 percent contained — and a temporary closure order for part of the wilderness has been drastically reduced.

by Matt Mikus