Wildfire Information

Wildfire information

Wildfires pose a threat to our area in several ways. A fire can lead to destruction of land and property, as well as evacuations for people. But far more people are affected by smoke from wildfires occurring in other states and Canada.

Air quality

Exposure to air pollution, even in the short term, can lead to health problems, especially for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Stay aware of current air quality conditions: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (state.mn.us)

See the Air Quality for your specific ZIP code: AirNow.gov

Tips to protect yourself from wildfire smoke: Reduce Your Smoke Exposure (airnow.gov)

Learn more about what these air quality levels mean: AQI Basics | AirNow.gov

People most at risk for health problems due to air pollution include:

• People with heart/cardiovascular disease or lung disease, such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Older adults.
• Infants and young children
• Pregnant people
• People in poverty and/or who lack access to health care
• People who smoke
• Outdoor workers

Learn more about risks and effects : Air quality and health | Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (state.mn.us)

Evacuation planning

In the event of a wildfire, St. Louis County has developed an online mapping tool that breaks the county into 1,600 evacuation zones. Should it become necessary, St. Louis County will use these zones to designate what properties should evacuate.

Wildfire planning and evacuation map