Updated
Updated · WLS-TV · Jul 20
Chicago Extends Air Quality Alert Until Midnight as Level 2 Severe Storm Risk Builds
Updated
Updated · WLS-TV · Jul 20

Chicago Extends Air Quality Alert Until Midnight as Level 2 Severe Storm Risk Builds

3 articles · Updated · WLS-TV · Jul 20

Summary

  • An air quality alert remains in effect across the Chicago area until midnight Monday, with smoky, hazy skies and highs in the upper 80s.
  • Wildfire smoke is still driving the alert, and forecasters said Illinois conditions could worsen if heavier smoke now affecting Wisconsin drifts south.
  • Strong to severe storms are then expected to move in from Wisconsin late Monday afternoon and evening, putting most of the Chicago area under a Level 2 risk.
  • Wisconsin faces a higher Level 3 threat, adding to a weather pattern that follows this weekend's unhealthy air tied to Canadian wildfire smoke.

Insights

As wildfire smoke becomes a new season, what long-term health risks do we now face every year?
Beyond home filters, how can cities protect public spaces and vulnerable citizens from toxic air?
What are the cascading economic costs when hazardous air grounds flights and shuts down city life?