"Wildfire Smoke Blankets Midwest, Prompting Air Quality Alerts and Calls for Forest Management"

An air quality alert for Chicago and northwest Indiana has been extended as the region continues to experience "very unhealthy" conditions due to high smoke and ozone levels. The alert, issued by the National Weather Service, warns of elevated ozone levels and wildfire smoke, impacting air quality for sensitive groups. Smoke from Canadian wildfires is contributing to the poor air quality. The alert advises residents, especially those with heart or lung disease, to limit outdoor activities. In addition to the air quality concerns, an active weather pattern is expected to bring rain and storms to the area through the weekend, with some storms potentially becoming severe.