Hazardous air quality forecast for much of Minnesota Thursday as fires grow

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The Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and Bois Forte Band of Chippewa are two of the closest tribal nations to the wildfires in northeastern Minnesota. 

Both are urging community members to stay inside as poor air quality continues, while also offering free face masks.  

At Bois Forte, located west of Ely, tribal chairman Carlos Hernandez says emergency evacuation plans are in place if needed.  

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“One thing we made sure yesterday was we need to identify who's going to need special transportation. We do have a working list,” Hernandez told MPR News. 

He described Thursday afternoon’s conditions as hazy and smoky near tribal offices in Nett Lake.  

“I think we're ahead of the game. We have a plan set. We started it before it got to our doorstep,” he said. “At least even if the unexpected happens, we do have a plan in place with our incident command already. Everybody has their roles, so we're ready.”  

Bois Forte has preparations in place to open tribal community centers as needed to escape high temperatures and air pollution.  

In a social media update by Grand Portage, tribal leaders continue to monitor conditions and prepare their own plans. Tribal leaders encourage community members to sign up for the Grand Portage Emergency Alert System.  

Both tribal nations continue to share updates to their social media pages. 

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Chandra Colvin

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The Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and Bois Forte Band of Chippewa urge community members to stay inside as poor air quality continues.

Tribal nations in northeast Minnesota step up wildfire preparation

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