CHICAGO, IL — Chicago experienced a rare weather event in May 2025 — its first large-scale dust storm in more than 90 years. The storm swept through the city after developing over dry farm fields near Bloomington, reducing visibility and triggering concerns about air quality.
Now, researchers say the storm likely carried more than just dust. According to environmental experts cited by The Independent, the cloud may have included toxic farm chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals like lead and arsenic.
What Caused the Storm?
The storm originated in central Illinois on May 16, as high winds swept over dry, tilled farmland. The combination of loose topsoil, lack of vegetation, and warm conditions allowed a dust cloud to rise and travel northeast toward Chicago.
Meteorologist Eric Lenning of the National Weather Service called the event “unprecedented” in recent memory, as quoted in The Independent. Visibility fell to near zero in some parts of the city, including Midway Airport, leading to travel delays and public alerts.
What Was in the Dust?
According to environmental scientists:
- The dust likely contained fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
- Trace elements such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic were found in samples
- Residual pesticides and herbicides from industrial farm fields may also have been airborne
Experts including Dr. Karin Ardon-Dryer of Texas Tech University say storms like this can transport dangerous contaminants into urban areas, especially when originating from agricultural regions…