Historic alert issued Monday, June 2, for hazardous smoke
From Monday, June 2, through Wednesday, June 4, 2025, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has declared a Maroon Air Quality Alert for the first time in state history. This new classification, above the standard Purple Alert, signifies hazardous air conditions—a warning level never before used in Minnesota.
Where is the Maroon Alert in effect?
The Maroon Alert is currently impacting Northwest Minnesota, particularly the region stretching from Red Lake toward the northwest, encompassing Roseau and East Grand Forks. The MPCA Air Quality Index has reached its most severe level here.
What does a Maroon Alert mean?
A Maroon Alert indicates that air pollution is at hazardous levels for everyone. According to MPCA guidance:
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Everyone is at risk of health symptoms, including eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath.
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More severe health outcomes are possible: asthma attacks, heart attacks, or even strokes, regardless of prior health conditions.
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The sky in affected regions will appear heavily smoky, with low visibility and a strong smell of smoke.
All residents are strongly advised to avoid any physical activity outdoors.
Purple Alert follows closely behind
Simultaneously, a Purple Alert—representing “very unhealthy” air quality—was issued for the second time ever in Minnesota. This level of pollution affects a broader section of northern Minnesota, including:
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Northern St. Louis County
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International Falls
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Bemidji
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Brainerd
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Moorhead
In these areas, everyone should avoid prolonged outdoor activity, and sensitive individuals—such as children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions—should remain indoors.
Red air quality levels cover most of Minnesota
The rest of the state, apart from the far southwest and southeast corners, remains under a Red Alert, classified as “Unhealthy”. This means:
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Everyone may begin to notice symptoms such as respiratory irritation or breathing difficulty.
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More vulnerable people, including those with asthma or heart disease, could experience serious complications.
Stay alert and indoors if you’re in Minnesota this week, especially in northwestern and northern regions. Conditions are expected to remain critical through June 4.
