The MPCA says that sensitive groups should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion, and everyone should limit their time spent outdoors.

Wildfire smoke pouring into the state from Canadian fires has triggered a red air quality alert, signaling that the air is unhealthy for anyone and everyone to breath. The alert, issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, is in effect until 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, for large portions of the state, including the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.

The entire state of Minnesota is under an air quality alert for the next few days, coinciding with a stretch of cooler, quieter weather.