The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a scale used to report daily air quality. It tells you how clean or polluted your air is, and what associated health effects might be a concern for you. Think of it like a weather forecast, but for air quality. The AQI focuses on health effects you may experience within a few hours or days after breathing polluted air.
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) calculates the AQI for five major air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act: ground-level ozone, particle pollution (also known as particulate matter), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. For each of these pollutants, the EPA has established national air quality standards to protect public health.
The AQI ranges from 0 to 500. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern. For example, an AQI value of 50 or below represents good air quality, while an AQI value over 300 represents hazardous air quality.
To find the AQI in your area, you can check local news websites, weather apps, or the EPA's AirNow website. Many cities and counties also have their own air quality monitoring websites or apps.
Understanding the AQI can help you make informed decisions about your health, especially if you have asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory problems. When air quality is poor, you may want to limit your time outdoors, especially during strenuous activities.
Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI): A Simple Guide
Worried about air pollution? The Air Quality Index, or AQI, tells you how clean or polluted the air is. It's a helpful tool for understanding potential health risks. Learn how to find the AQI in your area and what the different levels mean for your health and outdoor activities.
Source: Read the original article at CBS