Air-Quality Alert in Chicago Area Extended to Wednesday
Introduction to Air-Quality Alert
Chicago will enter its second day of an Air Pollution Action Day alert on Wednesday. Tuesday’s air-quality index hit 122, and the unhealthy levels are expected to persist into Wednesday evening across the Chicago metro area and northwest Indiana, the National Weather Service said.
Causes of Poor Air Quality
The ‘poor air quality’ category is said to be a result of unhealthy ozone levels and some lingering effects of Canadian wildfire smoke.
[2:30 PM 7/15/2025] An Air Quality Alert is now in effect through Wed. evening for the Chicago metro area and in NW Indiana due to unhealthy ozone levels and some lingering effects of Canadian wildfire smoke. Air quality is expected to be at unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. pic.twitter.com/pmSwIM7pFq— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) July 15, 2025
Health Precautions
“Sensitive individuals should take special precautions and follow their physician-prescribed regimen. In addition, some minority groups, people with lower incomes, and outdoor workers may experience higher exposure that can worsen health conditions,” the Illinois EPA said in a statement Tuesday.
Understanding Air Pollution Action Day Alert
The Air Pollution Action Day alert is triggered when air pollution levels reach the “orange” or “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category on the national Air Quality Index. Air-quality levels between 101 and 150 are unhealthy for sensitive groups like those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, babies, children and the elderly. Air-quality levels below 100 are considered healthy.
Weather Forecast
The weather Tuesday evening into Wednesday is expected to include a few storms that could bring high winds and heavy rain. Wednesday is expected to be partly cloudy with possible severe storms in the afternoon and a high of 91 and a low of 70, according to ABC7 meteorologist Cheryl Scott.
Conclusion
The air-quality alert in the Chicago area has been extended to Wednesday due to unhealthy ozone levels and lingering effects of Canadian wildfire smoke. Sensitive individuals are advised to take precautions, and the public is encouraged to stay informed about the air quality index and weather forecast.
FAQs
What is an Air Pollution Action Day alert?
An Air Pollution Action Day alert is triggered when air pollution levels reach the “orange” or “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category on the national Air Quality Index.
Who is most affected by poor air quality?
Sensitive individuals, such as those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, babies, children, and the elderly, are most affected by poor air quality.
What precautions can be taken to minimize exposure to poor air quality?
Sensitive individuals should take special precautions and follow their physician-prescribed regimen, and the public is encouraged to stay indoors and avoid strenuous outdoor activities when air quality is poor.
