Twin Cities could see extended summer smog

By H. Jiahong Pan

Contributing Writer ast week, the air in the Twin Cities was hazy, smokey, and extremely bad for your health, especially if you have pre-existing heart or lung conditions. On that day, air quality readings in Minnesota were above 250 on the air quality index, which is calculated based on the level of pollutants in the atmosphere in a cubic meter.

Air quality readings over 100 are considered un- remain above 50 through the end of the week, when cleaner air from above the Great Lakes will blow over the Twin Cities.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency believes the air quality readings set a new record for the worst in the Twin Cities since data collection began in 1980. The air pollution is primarily caused by wildfires in Ontario, Canada, which is just across the border to the northeast of Minnesota. For air pollution was also aggravated by ground level ozone pollution from smog, which is emitted from vehicles, production plants and refineries.

The air quality caused both the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and St. Paul Parks and Recreation to cancel all outdoor activities and events Wednesday evening. Canterbury Racetrack in Shakopee also had to call off their races, and the Minnesota Aurora, an all-women’s soccer team, had to relocate