Air Quality Alert issued for Thursday in Metro, St. Cloud, Hinckley, Mille Lacs

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an air quality alert for eastern and central Minnesota for Sept. 14 from 12-8pm, particularly in the Twin Cities Metro, Saint Cloud, Hinckley and Mille Lacs.

Because of high temperatures, wild fire smoke and abundant sunshine, air quality will be especially unhealthy for sensitive groups.

According to the MPCA, the quality is expected to improve as the sun sets Thursday evening.

Those at risk include people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

People are advised to limit, change or postpone physical activity, reduce vehicle trips and to avoid backyard fires.