Understanding Air Quality Index (AQI): What the Numbers Mean

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a valuable tool that helps us understand how clean or polluted our air is and what associated health effects might be a concern. The AQI runs from 0 to 500, with higher numbers indicating worse air quality. Here's a breakdown of what different AQI ranges mean:

• 0-50 (Green): Good. Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
• 51-100 (Yellow): Moderate. Air quality is acceptable. However, some pollutants may be of concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
• 101-150 (Orange): Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects, but the general public is unlikely to be affected.
• 151-200 (Red): Unhealthy. Everyone may begin to experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.
• 201-300 (Purple): Very Unhealthy. Health alert: The risk of health effects is increased for everyone.
• 301-500 (Maroon): Hazardous. Health warning of emergency conditions: everyone is more likely to be affected.

To protect your health based on AQI levels:

• Check local AQI forecasts regularly
• Limit outdoor activities when AQI is high
• Use air purifiers indoors
• Wear appropriate masks when necessary
• Follow advisories from local health authorities

By understanding and acting on AQI information, you can make informed decisions to protect your health and the health of your loved ones from air pollution.