Lincoln, Illinois – Air quality across Central Illinois has slipped toward unhealthy levels north of I-74 as wildfire smoke continues to blanket the region Thursday night, prompting health warnings for vulnerable residents.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, heavy concentrations of particulate matter from wildfire smoke have raised the Air Quality Index (AQI) into the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category across areas including Peoria, Bloomington-Normal, and Champaign. Readings near 9 p.m. Thursday showed localized spikes above 150 AQI, approaching the “unhealthy” threshold for the general population.
Residents with respiratory or heart conditions, along with older adults and children, are advised to remain indoors and avoid outdoor exertion. Cities along the I-74 corridor, including Galesburg and Danville, are seeing some of the worst air since early spring wildfire events. Visibility may also be reduced in some locations.
Officials recommend using air purifiers indoors, keeping windows closed, and limiting time outside. Those experiencing coughing or shortness of breath should monitor symptoms closely and seek medical advice if needed.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve Friday as winds shift and smoke disperses, but additional alerts could be issued if air stagnation persists.
