by A dense layer of wildfire smoke has descended over Illinois, prompting a statewide Air Quality Alert in effect through midnight Friday. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declared an Air Pollution Action Day for every county in the state, citing dangerously high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air.
The smoke, drifting in from wildfires in the western U.S. and Canada, combined with stagnant weather, has significantly deteriorated air quality.
Air Quality Reaches ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ Levels
Air monitoring stations across the state have recorded PM2.5 concentrations that place much of Illinois in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” (USG) category. In some regions, levels may even rise to the “Unhealthy” range, which can affect even those without pre-existing health conditions. Cities such as Springfield, Peoria, Decatur, Urbana, and Quincy are reporting haze, reduced visibility, and elevated ozone levels.
Health Officials Urge Residents to Stay Indoors
Public health authorities are advising residents—particularly children, the elderly, and people with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory issues—to avoid outdoor exposure. Even healthy individuals could experience symptoms like throat irritation, coughing, and difficulty breathing with prolonged outdoor activity. Schools, camps, and daycares are encouraged to keep all activities indoors, and outdoor sports and events should be rescheduled or moved indoors when possible.
Reducing Air Pollution: What You Can Do
To help limit ozone-forming pollution during this alert, the Illinois EPA is asking residents to:
- Limit driving and use public transportation or carpool
- Refuel vehicles after sunset
- Postpone use of gas-powered lawn equipment
- Avoid burning leaves or trash
- These simple actions can help improve overall air quality during critical periods.
- Protecting Yourself Indoors
- Residents are encouraged to:
- Keep windows and doors closed
- Use air conditioning with clean air filters
- Run indoor air purifiers if available
Monitor symptoms and follow medical advice, especially if you have a respiratory condition
Smoke Expected to Linger Through Friday
The thick smoke is expected to persist throughout Friday, and officials may extend the alert if weather conditions fail to clear the air. Calm wind patterns are slowing the dispersion of smoke across the Midwest, making it more difficult for polluted air to move out of the region.
Long-Distance Smoke Becoming More Common
This is one of Illinois’ most extensive air quality alerts this year, reflecting the growing impact of wildfire smoke traveling thousands of miles. With numerous fires still burning in the western U.S. and Canada, officials warn that such events could become more frequent.
Stay Informed
Real-time air quality updates are available at airnow.gov, where residents can also sign up for localized alerts. Officials recommend that everyone stay informed, limit outdoor exposure, and prepare for potential future alerts as wildfire season continues.
