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1. Health risks

Everyone: Limit prolonged outdoor activity. May experience difficulty breathing and throat irritation with prolonged exposure.

Sensitive Groups (children, older adults, people with heart or lung conditions): May experience more serious health effects, including worsening existing heart or lung disease, respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, asthma attacks, heart attacks, or strokes. These individuals should limit time outdoors, monitor their breathing, and keep windows and doors closed. It’s also recommended to consult a doctor if experiencing symptoms like wheezing, coughing, rapid heartbeat, tiredness, chest pain, or shortness of breath. 

2. Air quality index (AQI)

• Varying levels: The AQI has fluctuated, reaching “unhealthy” and even “unhealthy for sensitive groups” in various areas and at different times over the past few days.
• Chicago-specific data: AirNow reported a PM2.5 AQI of 92 (moderate) in Chicago at 9:00 PM CDT on August 3, 2025. AccuWeather reported an unhealthy AQI in Chicago on August 2, 2025 and an unhealthy AQI for sensitive groups in Chicago on August 3, 2025. 

3. Daily life impacts

• Outdoor activities: Limiting outdoor physical activity is recommended when air quality is low.
• Visibility: Haze from the wildfire smoke has impacted visibility.
• Potential disruptions: Consider adjusting daily routines like carpooling, combining errands, avoiding drive-thrus, and postponing outdoor activities. 

Important notes

• Wildfire smoke: The primary cause of the poor air quality has been smoke from Canadian wildfires drifting into the area.
• Improving conditions: Conditions have shown some improvement but remain a concern, particularly for sensitive individuals.
• Stay informed: Check reliable sources like AirNow.gov or the Illinois EPA for the most up-to-date air quality information and forecasts. 

What is the projected outlook for more Canadian wildfires?

Canadian federal officials are warning of a high risk of continued wildfires throughout August, making 2025 one of Canada’s worst wildfire seasons on record

Here’s a breakdown of the projected outlook:

1. Continued fire risk

• Elevated risk: Expect above-average fire risk over most of Western Canada and parts of the north throughout the summer.
• Expansion of risk: The area of risk is projected to expand in July and August, according to the U.S. National Interagency Fire Center.
• Hotter and drier conditions: Expect above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall, especially in the Prairies, British Columbia, and the Maritimes.
• Longer fire seasons: Climate change is contributing to longer fire seasons, which are expected to continue in 2025, starting earlier and potentially extending into the fall.
• Fuel accumulation: Increased vegetation due to past fire management practices creates dense fuel loads, leading to potentially more intense fires. 

2. Impacts

• Smoke and air quality: Frequent bouts of poor air quality from wildfire smoke are anticipated across much of North America, including the Midwestern United States.
• Health and economy: The consequences of wildfires will likely continue to affect health, infrastructure, and the economy. 

3. Important notes

• Climate change: Climate change is playing a significant role in increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires.
• Uncertainty: While forecasts suggest continued high fire risk, there is some uncertainty, especially in August, regarding specific locations and severity.
• Stay informed: Continue monitoring official sources like the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System (CWFIS) and local fire advisories for the most up-to-date information. 

In conclusion, the outlook suggests a challenging few months ahead, with continued high wildfire activity and associated impacts on air quality and public safety. 

Are there resources for people with respiratory issues during poor air quality?

There are several resources available in Chicago and nationally for individuals with respiratory issues, especially during periods of poor air quality like those caused by wildfire smoke.

1. Local organizations

• American Lung Association: Based in Chicago, this organization provides a wealth of information on lung health and disease. They also offer resources specifically addressing wildfire smoke and its impact on breathing.
• Respiratory Health Association: : A local leader focused on addressing asthma, COPD, lung cancer, and air quality through education, research, and advocacy. They offer resources and support to help people manage respiratory conditions and promote cleaner air.
• Breathe Chicago Center | University of Illinois Chicago: Offers asthma resources from various trusted organizations, including the American Lung Association and the American Thoracic Society. 
• American Lung Association: is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, through research, …⁩
• Respiratory Health Association 4.8(9): Addresses asthma, COPD, lung cancer, tobacco control, COVID-19, and air quality with a comprehensive approach.

2. General advice and guidelines

• Stay informed: Monitor air quality reports from sources like AirNow.gov to be aware of current conditions and forecasts.
• Limit outdoor exposure: Stay indoors as much as possible, keeping windows and doors closed to minimize smoke intrusion.
• Improve indoor air quality:
  • Run air conditioning on recirculation mode, ensuring filters are clean.
  • Consider using portable air cleaners with HEPA filters to remove fine particles from the air.
  • Avoid activities that generate indoor air pollution, such as burning candles or vacuuming.
• Masking: If you must go outdoors during poor air quality, wear a properly fitted N95 mask to help filter out harmful particulate matter. Note: N95 masks are not recommended for children and may be difficult for people with lung conditions to use.
• Manage symptoms: For individuals with asthma or COPD, follow your prescribed action plan and use medications as needed. Be sure to check with your doctor regarding any needed adjustments to medications.
• Seek medical attention: If you experience severe symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, or wheezing that doesn’t improve with medication, seek immediate medical attention. 

3. Support and information

• American Lung Association Lung HelpLine: A free resource staffed by nurses and respiratory therapists who can answer questions about lung health, including how to protect yourself during periods of poor air quality. You can reach them at 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872).
• Patient & Caregiver Network: Join the American Lung Association’s network for timely education, support, and connection with others living with lung disease. 

These resources can help individuals with respiratory conditions navigate periods of poor air quality and protect their lung health. Remember to prioritize your health, stay informed, anWhat are the effects of the poor air quality in Chicago the last few days?d seek medical attention if needed.