‘Unhealthy’ air quality expected in eastern Minnesota through Monday afternoon due to wildfire smoke

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Wildfires in northeastern Minnesota are more than 50 percent contained, authorities say. As firefighters finish that work, they are also looking to prevent new fires.

“We're putting forth a lot of effort to get out there and look for those key areas that could pose additional threats in the future. And so there's a lot of focus towards that now,” said Shane Sturgill, a leader of the federal response to the Minnesota fires.

Northeastern Minnesota’s wildfire season likely won’t end this year until the snow flies, he said.

Get the latest information on wildfires in Minnesota

Boundary Waters Canoe Are Wilderness outfitters and visitors are getting ready for some 

The U.S. Forest Service says 41 BWCA wilderness entry points will reopen for overnight camping starting Thursday. Those entry points are in parts of Lake and Cook counties, well away from where the ongoing wildfires are burning.

Officials made the move after recent weather helped keep fire activity to a minimum. A campfire ban remains in place.

Day-use permits for those same entry points resumed earlier this week.

As of Tuesday afternoon, fire officials have the following areas under “Go” and “Ready” status:

Above-average temperatures in the mid-80s will persist for the next few days, but moderate humidity levels combined with recent rainfall should keep fire behavior at a minimum, officials said. 

Overnight thunderstorms from Sunday into Monday resulted in about 800 detected lightning flashes over the fire areas, with about 40 percent striking the ground. 

Officials said extra patrols are planned to monitor the region and quickly respond to any new fire starts.

Air quality in the yellow (moderate) category is expected statewide Tuesday, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Moderate surface smoke is expected to affect Minnesota through Wednesday and likely through the end of the week. 

Live updates: Wildfires in Minnesota

Anna Haecherl

Author

Firefighting officials say the wildfires in northeastern Minnesota are more than 50 percent contained. While fighting fires and protecting property remain priorities, authorities are also looking to prevent future fires.   

Minnesota wildfires 50% contained; moderate air quality through Tuesday

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