Chicago, Illinois – Unhealthy air quality is affecting Chicago and surrounding suburbs through midnight Wednesday, prompting an Air Quality Alert across the greater Chicago metropolitan area.
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has issued a warning for Cook, Lake, and Will counties, as well as DuPage, McHenry, and Kane counties.
Ozone levels are expected to reach “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” on the Air Quality Index (AQI), with the highest risks expected Wednesday afternoon and evening.
Health Risks and Recommendations
This Air Quality Alert is particularly concerning for sensitive groups including children, seniors, and anyone with respiratory issues such as asthma or heart disease. These groups are advised to:
Avoid prolonged outdoor activity, especially between afternoon and evening, when ozone levels will be at their highest.
Take frequent breaks indoors if you must be outside, and monitor for symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing.
Carpool, use public transit, or limit vehicle use to help reduce emissions during the alert. Reducing traffic congestion can help improve air quality during this period.
Affected Areas
The Air Quality Alert covers several major cities, including Aurora, Naperville, Joliet, and Waukegan, as well as surrounding areas like Crystal Lake, Wheaton, Schaumburg, and Beecher. Residents in these areas are urged to take extra precautions to limit exposure to unhealthy air.
Further Information and Updates
This Air Quality Alert will remain in effect until midnight Wednesday, but additional advisories could be issued if conditions persist.
For air quality updates and tips on how to lower your pollution footprint, residents are encouraged to visit AirNow.gov or check local news sources.
If anyone begins to experience breathing difficulties, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.
