ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) issued an air quality alert Tuesday for all of Minnesota until 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2.

Northerly winds will continue transporting waves of heavy surface smoke from wildfires across Manitoba and Saskatchewan into Minnesota.

Fine particle levels are expected to reach the orange air quality index, a level considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, across southwest, southeast and south central Minnesota.

Levels are expected to reach the red air quality index, considered unhealthy for everyone, across the rest of Minnesota.

The public is asked to reduce or eliminate activities that contribute to air pollution, such as outdoor burning. Reduce vehicle trips and vehicle idling as much as possible. Keep windows closed to ensure outside smoke does not enter your home.