How to check air quality numbers in your area

HOUSTON – If you live in the Houston area, you might have noticed that air quality alerts are issued throughout the year by the U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI).

The AQI is divided into six categories, each representing a different level of health concern and marked by a specific color. These colors make it easy for people to quickly see if the air quality in their community is reaching unhealthy levels.

So, how can you check Houston’s air quality? There are several convenient options:

• Visit Airnow.gov: This website provides daily air quality data and forecasts for Houston and surrounding areas, using information from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. You’ll find current conditions, forecasts, and maps for your area.
• Check Harris County’s pollution control page: Harris County has a dedicated web page for air monitoring in Deer Park, featuring a map with data collected from handheld monitors.
• Download air quality apps: Apps like AirVisual and Plume Air Report send you pollution alerts, keep you updated on current air quality levels, and help you track changes in real time.

You can also help reduce ozone pollution by sharing a ride, walking, biking, bringing your lunch to work, avoiding drive-through lanes, conserving energy, and keeping your vehicle properly tuned, according to the TCEQ.