MPCA issues air pollution advisory for Friday
High temperatures, sunny skies and minimal wind will create a potentially unhealthy air situation over a large swath of Minnesota Friday.
Ozone levels are expected to rise quickly throughout the day.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is issuing an air pollution health advisory for western, central and southern Minnesota from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.
The affected area includes the Twin Cities, Rochester, Mankato, Marshall, St. Cloud and Detroit Lakes.
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Ozone forms from the reaction of sunlight with pollutants released from vehicles, gasoline-powered equipment, paints and solvents.
The health advisory means the air could reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups, including children, the elderly and people with respiratory disease or pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Even people who are otherwise healthy could experience difficulty breathing due to the increased pollution levels. The MPCA urges people to consider postponing or reducing vigorous outdoor exercise or activities that require heavy exertion.
During air quality alerts, residents are encouraged to do the following:
• Use public transportation
• Car pool
• Reduce vehicle trips and engine idling
• Postpone use of gasoline-powered equipment
• Avoid burning wood
Thunderstorms are expected to reduce ozone concentrations overnight after Friday's advisory expires, but the bad air could return Saturday.