The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has issued a Red Forecast Air Pollution Action Day for today, Thursday July 16th for the AirNow AQI forecast sectors of Rockford and all 6 Chicago area forecast sectors. This Red Forecast Air Pollution Action Day is declared due to a forecast of Unhealthy-Red category particulates and or ozone on Thursday July 16th. Northern IL is expected to be on the edge of a thick plume of surface smoke moving in from the north and cleaner air to the south. There is some uncertainty in how far south the smoke progresses and the duration of the poor air quality as this dividing line may meander in and out of Northern IL through Friday. With this in mind, those with air quality concerns or outdoor plans are encouraged to check current NowCast readings or sign up for EnviroFlash alerts on AirNow.gov. Unhealthy - Everyone should reduced prolonged activities or heavy exertion outdoors. Active children, older adults, and people with pulmonary or respiratory disease such as asthma should avoid prolonged activities or heavy exertion outdoors. Area residents are urged to reduce pollution levels. Air quality forecasts, current air quality, and tips on how you can reduce your emissions can be found at www.airnow.gov. Media contact...Illinois EPA.