An air quality alert has been issued by the Chicago Department of Public Health on Wednesday due to wildfire smoke from Canada.

“Stay safe, Chicago! Air quality in Chicago is now at an unhealthy level due to wildfire smoke from Canada. Limit your exposure by avoiding strenuous activities and shortening your time outdoors,” the department tweeted. A graphic accompanying the tweet said in bold letters, “WILDFIRE SMOKE CAUSE UNHEALTHY AIR QUALITY” adding, “As Canadian wildfire smoke continues to impact air quality, Chicagoans should limit exposure by avoiding extended time and strenuous activities outdoors.”

Also Read | What is Code Red? Air quality index drops in New York as Canadian wildfires smoke gets worse

The National Weather Service Chicago tweeted, “Low visibility due to wildfire smoke will continue today. Consider limiting prolonged outdoor activities.”

Furthermore, the World Air Quality Index reported that Chicago has the worst air quality in the world, which is alarming. Chicago’s air has been branded “unhealthy,” and in the red zone due to the Canadian wildfire smoke, which is coming in from northerly winds, causing the air quality to fall.

Chicago is followed by Dubai, which according to the Index has the second worst air quality in the world. In the third position is Sao Paulo, Brazil. 

Also Read | Canadian wildfires affecting air quality in Wisconsin, Minnesota and northern Illinois

The air quality in Chicago is slated to improve by 10 p.m. Tuesday, according to weather prediction models. However, till then, the residents are advised to wear masks, run air purifiers, and close windows. People suffering from heart and lung diseases have been advised not to spend much time outdoors.

27 new wildland fires have been added to the growing list of wild blazes in Canada, the country’s agency reported on Monday. Over 18 million acres have been affected this year. Experts have already rated the air quality in Montreal as “high-risk category,” warning residents to take precautions.