Wildfire Smoke Prompts Cancellation of Maple Grove Days Parade

Ongoing air quality concerns have forced the cancellation of the annual Maple Grove Days Parade, scheduled for Thursday evening, July 16.

Organizers announced the cancellation of the event Thursday morning, citing the heavy smoke settling over the Twin Cities metro area.

“We did not come to this decision lightly as no one loves the parade more than we do,” festival organizers said in a statement on social media. “Ultimately the health and safety of our community members, volunteers, first responders, and committee members is our top priority”.

 

 

 

 

 

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The decision comes after a historic wave of wildfire smoke swept across Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), new records for wildfire smoke concentration were set Wednesday in the Twin Cities. Active wildfires burning in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and southern Canada have sent air quality plunging into “very unhealthy” and “hazardous” categories.

Air quality alerts covering almost the entire state remain in place until 11 a.m. Friday, according to the MPCA.

While the parade will not take place, organizers are continuing to evaluate the remaining events scheduled for the Maple Grove Days festival. Attendees are urged to stay connected for further updates as organizers monitor the shifting air conditions.

Related: Keepin’ Up With Dave Is Ready for Maple Grove Days

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