Smoke from Canadian wildfires may bring hazy skies to Chicago this weekend

CHICAGO (WLS) — Smoke originating from Canadian wildfires is anticipated to reach the Chicago area on Friday, as predicted by ABC7 meteorologist Jaisol Martinez.

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Warmer temperatures are forecasted to settle in on Friday and through the weekend.

Martinez said smoke and hazy skies are expected to roll in to the Chicago area at about 11 a.m.

So far, no air quality alerts have been issued. ABC7 meteorologists will track the smoke and keep viewers updated.

There is a chance the smoke lingers into the weekend, Martinez said.

22 active wildfires in Manitoba

The Canadian province of Manitoba has declared a state of emergency over a series of wildfires.

The fire began Monday just north in neighboring Saskatchewan and has exploded in size.

There are 22 active wildfires in Manitoba. Officials said firefighters from across Canada are helping to fight the flames.

So far this year, Manitoba has had 102 fires, which officials say is “well above” the province’s average of 77 by this time.

Canada’s wildfire season extends from May to September. The most severe wildfire season on record occurred in 2023, engulfing much of North America with hazardous smoke for an extended period.

[AP News contributed to this report]