Champaign, Illinois – A thick blanket of wildfire smoke continues to smother central Illinois, prompting a state-wide Air Quality Alert through Friday night and raising health concerns for millions, especially children and those with respiratory conditions.
According to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, an Air Pollution Action Day is in effect through Friday, August 1, due to elevated ozone and particulate levels from wildfire smoke drifting into the region. The alert spans Galesburg, Peoria, Springfield, Champaign, and beyond, with the air quality expected to remain in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category for much of the state.
Communities including Urbana, Decatur, and Bloomington saw hazy skies Thursday afternoon, with visibility reduced to four miles in some areas. In Champaign, smoke is expected to linger through the weekend, though clearer skies are forecast by Saturday.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor activity, especially children, seniors, and anyone with asthma or lung conditions. Keep windows closed, use air purifiers if available, and avoid strenuous activity outdoors.
The Illinois EPA advises reducing emissions by delaying vehicle use and avoiding gasoline-powered equipment.
More wildfire smoke could return early next week with thunderstorm activity possible by Tuesday afternoon.
🔍 5-Day Outlook for Champaign, IL:
- Friday: High 77°F – Areas of smoke, partly sunny.
- Saturday: High 78°F – Sunny, calmer winds.
- Sunday: High 80°F – Clear and sunny.
- Monday: High 82°F – Mostly sunny, improving air quality.
- Tuesday: High 84°F – Slight chance of thunderstorms by late afternoon.
