Minnesota's Air Quality Crisis: Understanding Wildfire Smoke and Ozone Pollution.

Minnesota is currently experiencing the worst air quality in the US due to a combination of wildfire smoke from Canada and ozone pollution. The state has the worst air quality index readings in the country, with the Twin Cities recording the highest levels since records began in 1980. Northern and central Minnesota, including parts of the metro, are under an air quality alert until 6 a.m. Friday, while the remainder of the metro and southeastern Minnesota will be under alert until 8 p.m. Thursday. The smoke and ozone can cause respiratory distress and exacerbate heart conditions, and residents are advised to avoid outdoor burning, wood-burning devices, and reduce car trips and idling.