Air Quality Alert: Unhealthy Levels in Chicago Area Due to Canadian Wildfires

The Chicago area is experiencing unhealthy air quality levels caused by smoke from wildfires in Canada. Air Quality Alerts are in effect for Chicago, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The haze is expected to persist throughout the day.

Recommendations for individuals at risk, including those with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens, are as follows:

1. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
2. Keep outdoor activities short.
3. Consider moving physical activities indoors or rescheduling them.

For everyone, it is advised to:

1. Choose less strenuous activities to avoid heavy breathing.
2. Limit the duration of outdoor activities.
3. Engage in outdoor activities when air quality improves.

Mayor Brandon Johnson has issued a statement urging Chicagoans to take precautions and limit their outdoor exposure. Additional recommendations include wearing masks, using air purifiers, and closing windows to reduce exposure to smoke.

The City of Chicago is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates and necessary actions to protect vulnerable individuals. Immediate medical attention should be sought by dialing 911.

The current air quality conditions highlight the harmful impact of the climate crisis, affecting millions of people across North America. Urgent action is needed to mitigate these threats and ensure the well-being of every resident. For the latest air quality information in Chicago, visit airnow.gov.