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We’re at the end of our first major air quality alert of the summer due to wildfire smoke, and we ask that residents take heed to the advice of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency when these types of alerts are given.

All of Minnesota was at some point under the air quality alert this week with the northwestern part of the state under a rare “hazardous” category and most of northern Minnesota under a “very unhealthy for everyone” category on Monday.

On Tuesday, the alert had lifted for most of the northwestern part of the state, while Albert Lea was listed in the “unhealthy” category.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency stated as the smoke continued to move across the state Tuesday, the air quality was expected to worsen across southeastern Minnesota. The smoke was expected to leave by noon Wednesday.

Under the “unhealthy” advisory, everyone is advised to limit prolonged or heavy exertion and time spent outdoors. They should reduce outdoor physical activities, take more breaks and avoid activities to reduce exposure. Sensitive groups should consider moving outdoor events inside.

People could experience symptoms such as irritated eyes, nose and throat, coughing, chest tightness or shortness of breath.

More serious health effects could come for sensitive individuals, including worsening of heart or lung disease and respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

While the alert seems to be winding down this week, we know it is likely we’ll receive a couple more this summer.

Do yourself a favor and follow the advice of the PCA to prevent impacts of poor air quality.

You’ll thank yourself later.