Cook County air quality 'unhealthy,' heat watch issued
Chicago's air quality on Monday was considered "unhealthy for sensitive groups" as wildfire smoke from Canada blanketed the area.
An elevated concentration of microscopic particles in the air makes it "unhealthy for sensitive groups," according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's “AirNow” interactive map.
People should reduce their exposure to outdoor air if they have heart or lung disease, are older adults, children or teens, according to the EPA.
The effects of wildfire smoke, if it lingers into the week, could be compounded by an impending heat wave in the forecast.
Cook County is under a heat watch through Thursday evening, according to the National Weather Service. The temperature could rise to feel like 105 to 110 degrees Wednesday.
A chance of thunderstorms Thursday night, as well as a potential cold front Friday, could offer some relief, forecasters say.