Chicago, Illinois – Toxic particles traced to agricultural fertilizers were found in the massive dust storm that swept across Illinois, Indiana, and southern Michigan on May 16, raising fresh concerns about air quality and public health in the wake of the high-impact wind event.
According to the National Weather Service and follow-up air sampling by environmental agencies, visibility dropped below 0.25 miles in parts of Chicago, Bloomington, and Champaign during the storm’s peak. Subsequent analysis confirmed the presence of ammonium and nitrate compounds, likely lifted from recently treated farmland.
Drivers on I-55 and I-65 faced blinding conditions as strong winds pushed dust into urban centers including South Bend, Lafayette, and Gary. Officials say the storm caused multiple vehicle crashes, widespread power outages, and temporary closures of several highways. Emergency responders also received reports of respiratory distress in areas with prolonged exposure.
Residents in the hardest-hit zones were urged to close windows, use indoor air filters, and avoid outdoor activity during and after the storm. Experts say this is one of the first documented cases of a U.S. dust storm carrying toxic agricultural residues into populated areas.
While skies cleared within hours, environmental health monitoring continues. Authorities warn that more dust events are possible as drought and farming cycles collide this summer.
