The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency in Springfield Illinois
has issued a Air Quality Action Day for ground level ozone and fine
particulates, until midnight CDT tonight.

An Areawide Air Pollution Action Day is declared when weather conditions
are such that widespread ozone and or particulate levels are forecast
to be at OR ABOVE the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) category in
all or nearly all Illinois AQI forecast sectors.

Areas both inside and outside of the Action Day coverage area may
experience smoke/PM2.5 today into tonight. Those with air quality
concerns or anyone in Illinois with outdoor plans is encouraged to
check current NowCast readings or sign up for EnviroFlash alerts on
AirNow.gov. Before going outside, checking the NowCast AQI will help
identify periods of both poor and cleaner air quality regardless of
the level of the daily forecasted AQI.

AQI Category Guidance
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) - Members of sensitive groups may
experience health effects. The general public is less likely to be
affected. Sensitive groups: Make outdoor activities shorter and less
intense. Its OK to be active outdoors, but take more breaks. Watch
for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. People with
asthma: Follow your asthma action plan and keep quick relief medicine
handy. People with heart disease: Symptoms such as palpitations,
shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue may indicate a serious problem.
If you have any of these, contact your health care provider.
Unhealthy - Sensitive groups: Avoid long or intense outdoor activities.
Consider rescheduling or moving activities indoors. Everyone else:
Reduce long or intense activities. Take more breaks during outdoor
activities.

Media Contact... Illinois EPA