Springfield, Illinois – Wildfire smoke drifting south from blazes in Canada is expected to blanket central Illinois on Friday, bringing hazy skies, reduced visibility, and potential health risks, especially for sensitive groups.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, the smoke could linger through much of Friday, with concentrations near the surface potentially impacting cities like Springfield, Bloomington, Decatur, and Peoria. The agency warns that even though the wildfires are far to the north, upper-level winds are steering the smoke plume across Illinois.
The hazy conditions could obscure visibility along major routes such as I-55, I-72, and U.S. 51. Residents with respiratory issues, children, and the elderly should limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, and run air purifiers if available. Outdoor workers and commuters are urged to monitor air quality levels and take precautions.
This smoke event is one of the first significant air quality concerns of the season for Illinois and may trigger additional advisories if concentrations intensify or persist into the weekend.
Air quality alerts may remain in effect through Friday evening. Residents are encouraged to check AirNow.gov or local emergency updates for the latest conditions.
