CHICAGO (WLS) — Smoke from wildfires in Canada is expected to make its way into the Chicago area Friday morning, potentially reducing air quality.
The smoke is forecasted to start moving in around mid-day but should intensify in the evening near sunset, according to ABC7 Accuweather Meteorologist Jaisol Martinez.
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Martinez said in the afternoon, the winds direction will shift and come out of the north and northwest, bringing the smoke into the area.
Air quality was good to moderate across the Chicago area Friday morning, but it could potentially dip to being unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Martinez said there is potential to have some of that smoke in lower parts of the atmosphere and the smoke may stick around into the weekend.
The Canadian province of Manitoba declares a state of emergency over wildfires as thousands flee
Manitoba, a Canadian province, has announced a state of emergency due to a series of wildfires, with Prime Minister Mark Carney agreeing to deploy the military for assistance.
“This is the largest evacuation Manitoba will have seen in most peoples’ living memory,” Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said.
He said the fires have forced 17,000 people across several communities to flee.
“The call for military aid was made due to the large number of 17,000 individuals needing to be evacuated swiftly,” Kinew stated. “I am pleased to report that Prime Minister Mark Carney has approved the request.”
The emergency declaration helps officials to safely transport evacuees and provide shelter.
[AP News contributed to this report]
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