CENTRAL ILLINOIS — A growing wildfire crisis in Canada is now affecting the skies over Illinois. Smoke from dozens of fires burning across Canada has drifted into the Midwest, creating poor air quality and raising health concerns in many Illinois cities.
Weather experts say the ongoing drought in Canada is worsening the wildfire spread. As a result, hazy conditions and smoky skies are expected to continue across Illinois for the next several days.
According to WAND-TV, “Wildfires continue to burn at an alarming rate across Canada — and there’s no rest in sight.”
Where the Smoke Is Coming From
The smoke is traveling from wildfires in central and western Canada, especially regions hit by severe drought. Illinois is directly downwind from these areas, so as winds carry the smoke south, local air quality suffers.
Forecast models show smoke will linger over Illinois throughout the weekend, with no major rain or wind shifts expected to push it away.
Health Alerts Issued for Sensitive Groups
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has issued air quality warnings across multiple counties, especially in central and northern Illinois.
Air quality levels have reached the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category, which means:
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Children, older adults, and people with asthma should limit time outdoors
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Residents should close windows and use indoor air filters
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Avoid heavy exercise or outdoor work when possible
WAND-TV recommends checking their mobile weather app for real-time smoke conditions in your area.
Why This Smoke Problem Isn’t Going Away Soon
The drought in Canada is expected to last several more weeks, meaning more fires could start, and existing ones could keep growing. Until Canada gets significant rainfall, smoke will likely continue drifting into the U.S., affecting areas like Illinois again and again.
Climate experts also note that events like these are becoming more common, as dry seasons start earlier and last longer due to shifting weather patterns.
Have you noticed hazy skies or breathing problems this week?
Is wildfire smoke becoming a regular issue where you live in Illinois?
Share your story with us in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
