Springfield, Ill. – Smoke drifting south from Canadian wildfires is blanketing parts of central and eastern Illinois Sunday evening, reducing air quality to levels that could affect sensitive groups through early Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, the smoke may reach the surface overnight, triggering elevated fine particulate levels across regions including Peoria, Champaign, and Springfield. Individuals with respiratory conditions, young children, and older adults are encouraged to limit outdoor activity and monitor air quality indexes.
Beyond Monday, attention turns to the sky as scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop Tuesday through Thursday. The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of central Illinois under a Marginal Risk for severe weather Tuesday evening, with large hail and damaging wind gusts being the main threats. Heaviest rainfall is likely Tuesday and Wednesday, raising concerns for localized flooding, particularly in low-lying or poorly drained areas.
Cities including Decatur, Effingham, and Danville may experience multiple rounds of storms this week, with the severe threat uncertain after Wednesday. Residents should prepare for potential power outages, avoid driving through flooded roads, and stay weather-aware.
Conditions may change quickly. Additional advisories could be issued as Tuesday approaches.
