Day 3 Of Northern Metals Fire: Schools Close, Metro Air Worsens

BECKER, MN — The blaze at Northern Metals continues to smolder in the third day since the fire started, but authorities say they have made "major progress" in the fight. However, due to changes in the wind, Becker Public Schools are closed Thursday.

The fire started in a pile of crushed vehicles on the lot. Crews have been working nonstop at the site since the blaze was discovered just before 2:30 a.m. Tuesday by a passerby. No injuries have been reported.

On Wednesday evening, fire crews placed a fire break to separate debris piles and to allow a certain part of the wreckage to burn out. The fire break is holding in its place and crews continue to monitor the areas that are still burning.

On Thursday morning, a third-party consultant tested air from the smoke plume. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Federal Environmental Protection Agency are also sending staff to conduct testing. Police say they will release air quality results as soon as they are able.

Authorities note that smoke can cause irritation or respiratory symptoms, which can be more harmful to sensitive populations such as children or those with asthma. Large fires can produce smoke and gasses that may harm people’s health if they are exposed to too much.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Minnesota Department of Health recommended that people who have concerns about their health should seek advice from a medical care professional.

In the meantime, Becker area residents are asked to shelter in place or move away from the source of the smoke. Air quality even in the Twin Cities — about an hour southwest of Becker — is reduced due to the blaze, according to the National Weather Service.