Chicago-area residents are facing a double weather concern Monday as smoky, hazy skies linger under an Air Quality Alert and strong storms are expected later in the day. The alert remains in effect until midnight.
Wildfire smoke could worsen air conditions in Illinois if it shifts south from Wisconsin, where conditions were reported to be worse Monday morning. The smoke affecting the region is tied to Canadian wildfires.
Hot, Hazy Conditions Before Evening Storms
High temperatures are expected to reach the upper 80s while haze remains visible across the Chicago area. Mark McGinnis, a meteorologist cited by abc7chicago.com, said the smoky conditions are expected to persist through the day.
The weather pattern is forecast to change in the late afternoon and evening, when strong to severe thunderstorms could move south from Wisconsin. Most of the Chicago area faces a Level 2 severe-weather risk, while Wisconsin is under a Level 3 risk.
What the Alert Covers
The Air Quality Alert applies through midnight as officials monitor the movement of wildfire smoke across the region. Conditions in Illinois may deteriorate if the smoke plume continues moving south.
Residents across the Chicago area should also monitor weather conditions as the evening approaches, with severe storms forecast to arrive from Wisconsin. The combination of heat, haze and potential thunderstorms could make conditions change quickly Monday.