Good morning. It's Thursday and there's a lot of news. Here's the forecast and what else you need to know.
A tame spring day. Twin Cities highs in the mid-60s with a chance of rain after midnight, when temps drop to around 40. Statewide, partly sunny with a chance or rain in the north and west. Highs from upper 50s to upper 60s except near Lake Superior, where it'll be in the 40s. More on Updraft. | Forecast
Air pollution doesn't discriminate, but humankind's systems do. Research shows that African-American and Hispanic people breathe much more polluted air than they are responsible for creating. For example, African-Americans are nearly 80 percent more likely than whites to live where industrial pollution is highest. Earth Day Facts sponsored by Powerfully Green Solar
The latest COVID-19 news
Twenty thousand tests, every day. Gov. Tim Walz says that's feasible under a new plan led by the University of Minnesota and Mayo Clinic. It's a massive increase from the current amount, about 1,200 tests daily.
This massive increase in testing will be critical to reopening Minnesota. Better understanding of how widespread the coronavirus is and increased tracing of cases will help state officials make plans for restarting parts of the economy.
“Every symptomatic Minnesotan must be tested as soon as possible.” That was Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm's message, adding that an increase in testing means there will be major increases in case counts.
Here are the latest coronavirus statistics: 2,721 cases via 49,344 tests 179 deaths 660 cases requiring hospitalization 240 remain hospitalized; 107 in intensive care 1,317 patients recovered Testing will focus on vulnerable populations and those disproportionately impacted. That means people living or working in congregate care settings, health care workers, people experiencing homelessness and communities of color. Here's more of what you need to know when it comes to expanded testing.
New guidance for businesses is coming soon. Walz said Wednesday that more information, including on reopening businesses, is expected "in the next day or so."
Spring has arrived in Minnesota. How are you appreciating the outdoors while social distancing this season? Share with us what you see and hear from nature in your backyard and beyond.
— Cody Nelson, MPR News | @codyleenelson
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