|
Air Quality Update by Illinois EPA
and Illinois Department of Public Health
[May 31, 2025]
CHICAGO – The Illinois
Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) has issued the
following update regarding air quality impacts from Canadian
wildfires:
Canadian wildfire smoke has reached Illinois as of Friday, May 30,
2025.
Currently, smoke models are projecting an increase in fine
particulates to northern Illinois Friday afternoon that will sweep
southeast through Illinois during the evening and overnight hours.
Some smoke may linger into Saturday morning with a gradual decrease
from northeast Illinois towards central Illinois throughout the day.
Another round of smoke is possible just to the west of Illinois on
Sunday that is being monitored closely.
AirNow NowCast AQI may show Orange or “Unhealthy for Sensitive
Groups” (USG) or higher levels to indicate higher hourly periods.
The daily Air Quality Index (AQI) for Friday is currently forecasted
to be in the Yellow or “Moderate” category for most Illinois
sectors.
Some sectors in the Chicago area have been downgraded to a USG AQI
forecast for Friday.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local air quality and air
quality forecasts using the latest information on
AirNow.gov.
Particulate matter, also known as particle pollution, can cause
serious health problems, including asthma attacks, heart attacks,
strokes, and early death. Those most at risk are people with
respiratory or pulmonary disorders, as well as children and adults
who are active outdoors. Sensitive individuals should follow their
doctor’s advice. Some symptoms to look out for include wheezing,
coughing, a fast heartbeat, tiredness, chest pain and shortness of
breath. If symptoms worsen, call your physician or 911.
[to top of second column] |
Illinois Department of Public Health encourages residents to take
the following actions to protect themselves when air quality is Red
or “Unhealthy” AQI category:
Stay indoors and monitor your breathing, especially if you have
heart or lung disease, and keep windows and doors closed.
If your air conditioner has a fresh air intake, set your system to
recirculate or close the intake.
Use high efficiency filters in air conditioning systems and portable
air cleaners.
Avoid activities that create more particulate matter indoors, like
smoking or burning candles.
If you cannot avoid working or other outdoors activities, choose
shorter or less intense activities, considering rescheduling, and
take more frequent breaks.
Consider wearing a high-quality N-95 or N-100 mask while outdoors.
[Illinois EPA and Dept. Illinois Dept.
of Public Health]
|
