About AirNow
AirNow is the official U.S. government source for real-time and forecast air quality information, helping millions of Americans make informed decisions to protect their health every day.
Our Mission
Real-Time Data
We collect air quality readings from thousands of monitoring stations across the country and deliver them to you in near real-time, 24 hours a day.
Health Guidance
Our AQI scale and color-coded categories translate complex air quality science into clear, actionable health advice for every American.
Wildfire Alerts
During wildfire events we provide enhanced smoke forecasts and protective action guidance to communities in the path of smoke.
Partner Agencies
AirNow is a collaborative program operated by multiple federal agencies.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Program lead and primary data steward for the AirNow platform.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Provides air quality forecasts and atmospheric modeling support.
National Park Service
Monitors air quality in and around national parks and public lands.
AirNow by the Numbers
Understanding the AQI
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized scale from 0 to 500. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern.
Good
Air quality is satisfactory and poses little or no risk.
Moderate
Acceptable air quality; some pollutants may be a concern for a small number of sensitive people.
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects; the general public is less likely to be affected.
Unhealthy
Everyone may begin to experience health effects; sensitive groups may experience more serious effects.
Very Unhealthy
Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health effects.
Hazardous
Health warning of emergency conditions; the entire population is likely to be affected.
