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Illinois EPA and Department of Public Health monitoring air quality impact from Canadian wildfires

By Lindsay Romano Jun 1, 2025 | 7:01 AM

June 1, 2025 -If you noticed the air seemed a little hazy this weekend in central Illinois, that’s due to smoke from Canadian wildfires drifting into the area. Canadian wildfire smoke reached Illinois on Friday, causing moderate air quality conditions through part of the weekend. The Illinois EPA and The Illinois Department of Public Health say it’s possible to see more on the way.

Smoke models saw an increase in fine particulates in northern Illinois Friday afternoon that swept southeast through Central Illinois during the evening and into Saturday causing moderate air conditions. Moderate air quality is considered acceptable, however there may be some risk for people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.

Officials say another round of smoke is possible just to the west of Illinois on Sunday that is being monitored closely. During this time, AirNow NowCast AQI may show Orange or “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” (USG) or higher levels to indicate higher hourly periods. 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.
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.
In June 2023, Illinois experienced some of its worst air quality due to smoke from Canadian wildfires. Chicago, in particular, recorded some of the highest air pollution levels in the world on June 27, 2023. This was due to a combination of wildfires, drought, and record heat, which created a record level of emissions.