Chicago, Illinois – Residents across the greater Chicago area face unhealthy air conditions through midnight tonight as ozone levels and lingering wildfire smoke prompt an Air Quality Action Day. Sensitive groups, including children and people with asthma, are especially at risk from the combination of elevated ozone and fine particulates.
According to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, weather conditions will keep pollution trapped near the ground, causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to reach the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range across Cook, Lake, DuPage, Will, McHenry, Kane, Kendall, and Grundy counties. While ozone is the primary concern, wildfire smoke is expected to keep PM2.5 levels high, adding to breathing risks in the Chicago metro, suburbs, and cities like Joliet, Waukegan, and Aurora.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor exercise and keep windows closed, especially if you have respiratory issues. To help lower pollution, avoid unnecessary car trips, refuel vehicles after dark, and delay yard work that involves gasoline-powered equipment.
The alert is in effect until midnight tonight, with improved conditions possible as winds shift overnight. Stay updated on air quality conditions at airnow.gov, as additional advisories may be issued if pollution levels remain elevated.
