Air quality index due to wildfire smoke hits hazardous levels

The air quality index from wildfire smoke has reached hazardous levels in Minnesota, producing dangerous impacts to human health. Wildfire smoke contains microscopic fine particles known as PM 2.5. These tiny droplets are small enough to wiggle into lungs and enter the bloodstream. Studies have linked particulate matter in wildfire smoke to a greater risk of strokes, heart disease, respiratory issues, lung cancer and other health conditions in humans.

Ely leaders are asking Minnesotans to support local businesses as wildfires and hazardous smoke disrupt the city’s busiest tourism season.

Permits for entry into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area are canceled through Sunday as fires in the area continue to grow. The U.S. Forest Service told outfitters' permit holders will automatically get refunds.

A barrage of political ads is popping up on screens in Minnesota as the DFL primary race for U.S. Senate reaches its final weeks. Ahead of the Aug. 11 primary election, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, U.S. Rep. Angie Craig and backers have been flooding the airwaves to bolster their campaigns and slam their opponent.

The Minnesota Department of Education says it plans to ask a judge to reconsider its ruling on the state’s new K-12 health education standards. Earlier this month, an administrative judge rejected the state’s new standards. In her ruling, the judge said the education department failed to comply with procedural requirements. The ruling, which is typically a noncontroversial last step in the state rulemaking process, came as a surprise to committee members who worked on the standards.

In heated Minnesota Senate primary, barrage of political ads is omen of more to come this fall

With air so smoky you 'taste it,' Ely residents seek relief

BWCA entry permits canceled through Sunday