More than 50 years ago, the US government passed the Clean Air Act of 1970 to address air pollution from industrial sources. Air quality improved across much of the country for decades. In recent years, though, events like wildfires have worsened air quality. Smoke and particulate from fires can cause drastic and sudden shifts in air quality. And they can impact communities far from the fires themselves.
This interactive map from Esri shows current air quality across the country. It fuses data from federal agencies to provide a comprehensive overview of air quality and its impacts.
In the map, current air quality ranges from good (green) to hazardous (magenta). Dots across the US represent more than 3,000 air quality stations. You can click any station for a report of air quality index and concentrations of pollutants such as ozone, PM2.5, and PM10.
You can see how air quality will change by clicking in the map or searching for a place. In addition to current air quality, you can see forecasts for later today and tomorrow. Graphics provide context about the ratings in plain language. For example, the Very Unhealthy (purple) rating means, “The risk of health effects is increased for everyone.”
Scrolling the info panel reveals more insights about air quality and who it impacts. A 72-hour wind forecast provides a snapshot of how much conditions might change. You can also find detailed demographic breakdowns about the people who live and work in each place. These include vulnerable groups such as seniors, school-age children, and people who are asthmatic. You can even see how much of the workforce is affected by poor air quality.
These insights can help communities mitigate air quality impacts. Some states, like California, have established clean air centers that are available during poor air quality events. As wildfires become more volatile, a clear view of air quality will be essential for climate resilience.
More to Explore
- Learn more about how this interactive map was made.
- Discover how NOAA models and forecasts smoke.
- Watch a NASA scientist explain how the 1987 Montreal Protocol led to global improvements in air quality.
