Illinois EPA Releases Air Quality Report for 2012
Record Breaking Temperatures Impacted Illinois Air Quality
Air quality is significantly impacted by several meteorological factors that include temperature, atmospheric pressure, precipitation, wind speed and even wind direction. Much of the country, including Illinois, experienced unusual weather patterns in 2012, which resulted in conditions more likely to lead to elevated air pollution levels. High temperature records were broken throughout the Illinois in 2012, including the warmest year on record for both Chicago and Metro-East St. Louis and the second warmest year in Springfield.
Even accounting for these record-breaking conditions, air quality was either good or moderate 86 percent of the time throughout Illinois, a drop from the 92 percent recorded in 2011. Illinois recorded 11 “Unhealthy” (category Red) days in 2012, and an additional 40 days (31 days in 2011) when air quality in some part of Illinois was considered “unhealthy for sensitive groups” (category Orange).
“While 2012 did see slightly lowered air quality, we are encouraged that 10-year trends continue to show Illinois air quality is improving,” said Illinois EPA Director Lisa Bonnett. “We hope that trend continues as more citizens and businesses make sustainable, environmentally-friendly practices a priority.”
Air quality data for the 2012 report was obtained from the states extensive air monitoring network, which includes 75 different sites and more than 170 instruments. The Illinois EPA also provides daily air quality information through their website to keep residents and businesses informed. Daily air quality forecasts using the national Air Quality Index are issued for 14 sectors throughout the state. Daily ozone and fine particulate matter data is also provided, including any exceedances of federal standards. For additional air quality information, visit www.epa.state.il.us/air/air-quality-menu. | 
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