Thick, heavy wildfire smoke to move into Chicago area; air quality alert issued

Published: Friday, May 30, 2025 at 12:00 am

**Wildfire Smoke Threatens Chicago Area, Air Quality Alert Issued**

Chicago residents should brace themselves for hazy skies and potential air quality issues as thick wildfire smoke from Canada, North Dakota, and Minnesota descends upon the area starting Friday afternoon. According to NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Alicia Roman, the smoke is expected to roll in around 5 p.m., with the heaviest impact felt in Chicago's western counties. Strong winds from the north will exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to heavy smoke and haze by 6 p.m.

An air quality alert has already been issued for all of Wisconsin, including Kenosha County, beginning at 6 a.m. Friday. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that PM2.5 AQI (Air Quality Index) levels are expected to reach "unhealthy" levels, particularly for sensitive groups like those with asthma or heart disease. The alert advises that air quality will degrade from north to south as the smoke moves in, with the potential for an additional advisory on Saturday for western areas.

The U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI) is the EPA's tool for communicating about outdoor air quality. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern. The NWS advises individuals to shorten and lessen the intensity of outdoor activities, and to watch for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath. As of 5:30 a.m. Friday, Chicago's air quality was in the "moderate" category, with a PM2.5 of 93.

BNN's Perspective: While the immediate health risks are concerning, it's important to remember that these events are becoming increasingly common due to climate change and changing weather patterns. This underscores the need for proactive measures, including supporting policies that address the root causes of these wildfires and investing in public health infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of poor air quality.

Keywords: Chicago air quality, wildfire smoke, air quality alert, Wisconsin, PM2.5, AQI, unhealthy air, Canadian wildfires, smoke forecast, hazy skies, asthma, heart disease, National Weather Service, Environmental Protection Agency, Alicia Roman, Kenosha County, air pollution, outdoor activities, health concerns.

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