Jaisol Martinez reports that Chicago will experience a return of wildfire smoke and potential severe thunderstorms this Saturday.

Jaisol Martinez, an ABC7 meteorologist, reports that Chicago will see a return of hazy wildfire smoke this Saturday afternoon after a brief period of relief. While air quality was moderate on Saturday morning, it is expected to drop to "unhealthy for sensitive groups" as winds push smoke from Canadian wildfires back into the region. The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for several counties in Illinois and Indiana until 7 p.m. Saturday. Residents should prepare for potential damaging winds, hail, and heavy downpours. Although the smoke is expected to linger into Sunday, the administration noted that the plume will not be as severe as the conditions seen on Thursday. The smoke, largely attributed to climate change, has prompted various reactions. President Trump criticized Canada's forest management via social media, threatening additional tariffs on the country. Meanwhile, health experts advise residents to limit outdoor activities and monitor indoor air filters to mitigate the effects of the lingering pollutants.

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