(WAND) - Since the previous Friday, Canadian wildfire smoke of varying degrees has been an issue across central Illinois. Although our northern neighbors have seen far worse air quality, we have reached the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" stage at times. And, there is no rest in sight.

Wildfires continue to burn at an alarming rate across Canada, due in part to a large drought. The accompanying map shows numerous fires that are out of control (red dot). Yellow is deemed "being held" and blue is "under control."

The WAND Futurecast Smoke graphic shows that wildfire smoke will linger through this weekend. However, it can become a greater problem next week as the wind flow shifts out of the Canadian Plains into Illinois once again.

Stay safe out there this weekend. Keep the WAND w

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