Record number of air quality alerts already issued in 2023

By Tucker Henderson

Reporter

Hazy skies and smoky-smelling breezes have led to a heightened volume of air quality alerts issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) this summer. In fact, the alert issued on July 24 set the new record at 23 air quality alerts this year, up from 21 in 2021.

Air quality affects all aspects of life in Minnesota, especially as people are out and about enjoying themselves in the state’s many lakes and forests.

The largest concern is the detrimental effects of air pollution on one’s lungs, especially those who are already living with weakened respiratory systems. According to the MPCA, air pollution played a role in 8-10 percent of all deaths in Greater Minnesota cities including Duluth, Rochester, and St. Cloud.

The particulates in the air during an alert can cause worse symptoms in sufferers of asthma, COPD, emphysema, and other lung diseases. Symptoms may include coughing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and unusual fatigue. The high temperatures Minnesotans have been experiencing the past few weeks have also been known to make air quality symptoms even worse.

Taking precautions is key for those who suffer with vulnerable lungs as well as those with healthy lungs as air quality affects everyone.

The American Lung Association suggests that people limit their time outdoors during an air quality alert and protect the air in their home by keeping doors, windows, and fireplace dampers shut. Air recirculation settings on air conditioner units may also help with keeping the air clean in the home.

The list goes on to say that people should keep an eye on their symptoms as well as those of their children, who have more susceptible lungs as they continue to develop. Contact your healthcare provider if you and your child is experiencing continually worsening symptoms.

A last word of warning by the American Lung Association is that ordinary dust masks are designed to filter out large particles and cloth facial coverings will not help in the case of an air quality alert. More expensive N-95 or N-100 masks may filter out more of the fine particles, but they may not fit properly as they are not made for children or adults with facial hair. Those with lung diseases are also cautioned not to use them as they are often difficult for them to breathe with.

Representatives from Otter Tail County Public Health suggest following the CDC’s recommendations for air quality precautions, which are similar to those of the American Lung Association.