The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issued an air pollution health advisory for parts of the state yesterday, including Duluth.

But you can breathe easier now as the M–P–C–A says air conditions shifted into the 'good' zone this afternoon.

Health officials still want people to be aware of the possible affects of these high levels of air–pollution.

LeAnn Wallace joins us live... LeAnn?

Pat, hot sunny weather, light winds and building humidity are the perfect combination for creating and trapping a higher level of air–pollution.

Superior Street, in downtown Duluth has had its problems with air quality over the years especially when traffic is at peak levels.
When high levels of air contaminants combine with higher temperatures and high humidity that can trap those emissions and cause some problems.
Health experts say there are some precautions you should take to protect yourself.

High–end moderate ozone and fine particle pollution filled Minnesota's air yesterday...
A combustion bi–product known as P–M 2–point–5 was the culprit.

"P–M 2–point–5 is omitted by automobiles, industry sources, power plants, and primarily is a bi–product of burning different fossil fuels like gasoline and coal."

Weather patterns have a lot to do with air–pollution advisories.
A large mass of polluted air in the central and eastern parts of the United States drifted into the area creating the advisory.
Those with lung and respiratory problems are especially susceptible to illness during these times.

"They're very small particles that are easily inhaled down into the lung and not easily eliminated from the body they pass right through the throat and right into the lung where they can do serious damage."

People with good health aren't completely immune from the potential health affects of air–pollutants either.

"The throat becomes irritated and they cough a lot and that could be exacerbated by these things and it could be a sign to see your physician or at least know about it and again avoid being outside doing strenuous activity."

The M–P–C–A says the quality of Duluth's air usually falls in the "good" zone, but there have been over 30–advisories so far this year.
There are a number of things people can do to help the area stay in the green.

Experts recommend using public transportation or car pooling, as vehicles make up about half the pollution we see across the country...
and holding off on things like lawn mowing and recreational fires or barbequing for just a few days until the air clears up can also help... Pat.

LeAnn, what can people do to protect themselves individually?

Health officials recommend drinking plenty of water and not over exerting yourself.

When pollution levels are high its recommended that you avoid strenuous outdoor activity...and if you have a compromised respiratory system you might consider wearing a face mask.