Chicago Air Quality Alert: Wildfire Smoke Creates Health Crisis

Chicago Air Quality Alert: Wildfire Smoke Prompts Health Warning Chicago, IL – June 5, 2025 – The Chicago area is under an air quality alert due to smoke from ongoing wildfires in Canada. The alert, issued by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, is in effect until Friday at midnight. Meteorologist Larry Mowry from ABC7 Chicago explained that air quality has fluctuated throughout the day, ranging from moderate to unhealthy levels. He stated, "This smoke is going to stick around through the night tonight and also during the day tomorrow." The poor air quality poses a significant health risk, particularly for vulnerable populations. Dr. Momen Wahidi, a pulmonologist at Northwestern Medicine, urged residents with heart or lung conditions to remain indoors. "We recommend that they actually avoid being outdoors right now because that can create some potential breathing problems," he warned. The ABC7 report showed hazy conditions throughout downtown Chicago, emphasizing the severity of the situation. The report also included advice on safety precautions, such as wearing masks if going outside and changing clothes and showering upon returning home. The situation highlights the far-reaching consequences of environmental events, impacting even distant communities.