Officials say wildfire smoke from Canada is filling the Chicagoland area and an air quality alert has been issued, with air quality levels over 300 in Lake County as people are being urged to limit outdoor time.
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a Red Forecast Air Pollution Action Day for Thursday for the Chicago area, including Rockford.
The Red Forecast Air Pollution Action Day is declared due to a forecast of unhealthy-red category particulates or ozone and is in effect until midnight Thursday.
Northern Illinois is on the edge of a thick plume of surface smoke moving in from the north and cleaner air to the south, the alert said.
“There is some uncertainty in how far south the smoke progresses and the duration of the poor air quality as this dividing line may meander in and out of Northern IL through Friday,” the National Weather Service (NWS) said.
Those with air quality concerns or outdoor plans are encouraged to check current NowCast readings.
Everyone should reduce prolonged activities or heavy exertion outdoors on Thursday, the alert said.
Active children, older adults and people with pulmonary or respiratory disease, such as asthma, especially should avoid prolonged activities or heavy exertion outdoors.
According to AirNow, the far eastern border of Lake County and Kenosha County registered a 558 AQI “hazardous” reading, which is the highest level possible.
A 326 AQI “hazardous” reading was registered in Libertyville with AQI “very unhealthy” readings of 236 to 271 in McHenry County.
The Greater Round Lake Fire Protection District said residents will notice a haze and smell of smoke, which is related to the 140+ wildfires across Canada.
The fire district said people should limit their time outside if possible, especially if they have respiratory problems such as asthma or COPD.
Residents should keep their windows closed and use air conditioning if possible.
The smoke is expected to remain through Friday or Saturday, when rain and thunderstorms are expected.
Officials said there is no need to call the fire department for the odor or sight of the smoke. “If you see something different, such as thick, dark smoke or smoke coming directly from a house, call 911.”