A public health emergency has been reported in Chicago, with toxic chemicals filling the air, but many residents are questioning its validity. According to Google Maps, an enormous cloud of hazardous air sat over the entire city, with readings reaching 500 on the Air Quality Index (AQI), denoting extremely hazardous conditions.
Air quality maps revealed a massive cloud of hazardous air in Chicago on Wednesday afternoon, prompting alarm messages from both Google and Apple customers. However, many residents took to social media to share their own readings, claiming that the air quality was not as bad as reported.
Dr Vin Gupta, a pulmonologist, explained that an AQI score of 500 is typically associated with acute events such as wildfires or burning buildings, which are usually accompanied by severe health effects. Despite this, some residents received warning messages on their phones and social media users shared images of air quality alerts.
The Chicago area’s poor air quality has been a persistent issue, ranking among the worst in the US. However, some experts argue that recent warnings may have been caused by a glitch or limited data from AccuWeather and IQAir.
A physician with the American Lung Association noted that it is not unusual for Chicago to receive air quality alerts, even when the air appears clear. Dr Juanita Mora emphasized the importance of checking air quality readings and using air purifiers during bad days to protect health.
The state of Illinois received an “F” grade for high ozone pollution in recent years, with Cook County reporting a significant increase in air pollution between 2020-2022 and 2021-2023.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-14640857/mystery-major-city-public-health-emergency-toxic-chemicals-air.html