Chicago, Illinois – Unhealthy air from wildfire smoke is blanketing much of northern Illinois Thursday, sending the region into a rare “Red” Air Pollution Action Day that will last until midnight tonight. The alert covers Rockford, Chicago, Aurora, Joliet, and suburbs throughout Cook, Will, Lake, Kane, and DuPage counties, with air quality now reaching levels that can affect anyone outdoors.
According to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, fine particle pollution has reached the “Unhealthy” category for the Air Quality Index (AQI) across the Chicago metro and surrounding counties. The main culprit is wildfire smoke drifting in from the north, triggering warnings for all residents—especially children, seniors, and those with asthma or lung conditions—to avoid prolonged outdoor activity or strenuous exercise.
Schools, daycares, and summer camps in places like Evanston, Naperville, and Plainfield are being advised to keep kids indoors. Commuters across interstates I-90, I-88, and I-55 may also notice reduced visibility and haze. Experts urge residents to run air conditioning on recirculate, keep windows shut, and limit car trips to help reduce further pollution.
This is the second time this summer Chicago and its suburbs have faced a Red AQI day, reminiscent of last July’s Canadian wildfire smoke event. Officials warn that air could remain unhealthy into Friday morning, with further updates possible if smoke lingers.
Next update:
Check AirNow.gov for the latest advisories and be ready for extended air quality alerts into the weekend if smoke conditions do not improve.
