Chicago Air Quality Ranks Worst Globally Amidst Wildfire Smoke

Chicago's air quality has plummeted to its worst level on record, with an air quality index (AQI) soaring to 651 on July 17, far exceeding the "hazardous" levels defined by experts. This alarming figure places the Illinois city as having the worst air quality among major global cities, according to NBC Chicago, citing global air quality monitoring platform IQAir.

This unprecedented pollution is largely due to a surge in Canadian wildfires, intensified by a persistent heat dome. NASA data indicates that by mid-July, nearly 850 wildfires were active in Canada, with over 180 in Ontario alone. The resulting smoke has blanketed vast areas of Canada and the United States, significantly impacting the air quality in the US Midwest and Northeast, including Chicago, Detroit, and New York.

The National Weather Service has extended an air quality alert for Chicago, warning of worsening smoke conditions. The Environmental Protection Agency of Illinois has advised residents to remain indoors and wear masks if venturing outside is necessary. While forecast models suggest a potential clearing by Friday afternoon, air quality is expected to remain a concern.

The poor air quality has disrupted local life, forcing many outdoor camps and events to move indoors and leading to the closure of pools and beaches. A Major League Soccer game between the Chicago Fire and Vancouver Whitecaps was postponed due to the hazardous conditions. Similar hazardous air quality alerts have been issued across other US cities, including Grand Rapids, Pittsburgh, and Toledo, as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to affect the region.

“

At ‘unhealthy’ levels, everyone – not just people with asthma or heart conditions, not just