Air Quality Index (AQI)
The federal Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number that shows how good (or bad) the air quality is. We use AQI information to advise you about air quality levels. When there is too much air pollution, your health could be at risk.
Using the Air Quality Index
The AQI tells us if the air is polluted. It gives us information about how recent levels measured in the air relate to health problems. The bigger the number, the more pollution in the air and the higher the risk for health problems.
The AQI measures these air pollutants (called criteria air pollutants):
The table shows the possible health effects of air quality at different levels. Each level is a different color with its own set of health problems.
Color (Values) |
Meaning – What You Can Do |
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Good – Air pollution is low.
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Moderate – Some people are more sensitive to lower levels of particle pollution. These people should:
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Unhealthy for sensitive groups (USG) – Sensitive groups should:
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Unhealthy – Everyone should reduce exposure.
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Very unhealthy – Everyone should reduce exposure.
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Hazardous – Everyone should reduce exposure.
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Green
Yellow
Orange
Red
Purple
Dark red
Washington's Air Monitoring Network
Ecology and other clean air agencies maintain monitoring stations to measure air pollution in Washington. The map below displays current AQI levels. Find a bigger map with more features at Washington Air Quality Map.
Go to Washington Air Quality map for a bigger map with more features.
Air quality mobile app
Download the air quality mobile app:
- Go to the air quality map. Click on "install this app" (top right corner of the map).
- Apple: Air Quality WA (classic map)
- Google/Android: Air Quality WA (classic map)
Related links
Contact information
Matt Kadlec
Toxicologist
matt.kadlec@ecy.wa.gov
360-522-0701