An air quality alert was in effect for most of the Chicago area Thursday due to wildfire smoke moving into the region from Canada. Parts of northern Illinois and northwest Indiana were issued the alert, which is in effect until midnight, according to the National Weather Service. The drop in air qua lity is due to wildfire smoke and unhealthy ozone pollutants, the weather service said. The area had previously been under an air quality alert for conditions unrelated to the wildfire smoke. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency triggered an Air Pollution Action Day and individuals were urged to limit prolonged outdoor activity and take more frequent breaks. ...read more read less