Illinois is under a statewide air quality alert due to heavy wildfire smoke spreading across the region. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has declared an Air Pollution Action Day through midnight Friday, warning that the air could be unhealthy—especially for people with existing health problems.
Why the Air Quality Alert Was Issued
Smoke from wildfires in the western U.S. and Canada is moving across Illinois and mixing with stagnant weather conditions. This has caused a sharp rise in fine particulate matter, which can be harmful when inhaled, especially by children, older adults, and those with asthma or heart issues.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) across Illinois has reached “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” (USG) in many areas and could reach “Unhealthy” levels in some places. That means even healthy people may begin to feel symptoms if they stay outside too long or engage in physical activity.
Areas Most Affected
Every county in Illinois is under the alert, from Adams to Vermilion. Cities like Springfield, Peoria, Decatur, Quincy, and Urbana are seeing high levels of smoke and poor air quality. The worst conditions are expected to continue through Friday evening.
Outdoor summer activities, including camps, sports, and school programs, are being urged to move indoors where possible. People with lung or heart conditions should be especially cautious and avoid any outdoor exertion.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
Health experts and the EPA recommend several steps to stay protected during the air quality alert:
Avoid outdoor exercise and physical activity
Stay indoors with windows and doors closed
Use air purifiers or air conditioners with clean filters
Wear an N95 mask if you need to be outside for extended periods
Keep children and older adults inside as much as possible
You can also help reduce air pollution by driving less, avoiding using gas-powered tools during the day, and delaying refueling your vehicle until after sunset.
How Long Will This Last?
The Air Quality Alert is currently in effect until midnight Friday, but conditions could change depending on how long the smoke stays in the region. Officials will continue to monitor the air and may extend the alert if needed. To stay updated, residents are encouraged to check real-time air quality reports at airnow.gov.
This is one of the most widespread air quality alerts Illinois has faced this year. With smoke from wildfires continuing to spread, everyone—especially those with breathing or heart conditions—should take steps to stay safe. Reducing time outside, avoiding physical exertion, and following health guidelines can help protect your health during this air quality emergency.
