What You Need To Know About Air Quality In Montana

Hazy skies during the summer months are typical here in Montana.

Not only do these smoky skies hinder our view, but they also contribute to very poor air quality.

What is the Air Quality Index?

The AQI is simply a scale that provides real-time data on air pollution levels.

The US Environmental Protection Agency developed this index to help easily categorize air quality.

The index consists of sensors all around the globe that are constantly reading air quality levels.

• AirNow
• PurpleAir

How to Read the AQI

It may seem slightly confusing, but the AQI is divided into six categories with corresponding colors.

Anything above 100 means the pollution level is considered to be unhealthy.

Generally, state and local agencies issue alerts for air quality above 100.

What Does the AQI Measure?

• Carbon monoxide: From burning fuel, wildfires, and industrial facilities.
• Nitrogen dioxide: This comes primarily from burning fossil fuels.
• Ozone: Forms when pollutants react in sunlight.
• Particle pollution (PM2.5 and PM10): Includes soot, dust, and smoke from various sources.
• Sulfur dioxide: Emitted from burning fossil fuels.

Health Effects of Poor Air Quality

Poor air quality has numerous impacts, especially on folks with asthma.

Symptoms can range from coughing to itchy eyes and even severe cardiovascular disease and other respiratory problems.

How to Protect Yourself From Poor Air Quality

• At Home:
  • Close doors and windows.
  • Use air conditioners on “recirculation” mode.
  • Consider an air purifier with a HEPA filter.
• Outdoors:
  • Check AQI updates regularly.
  • Limit outdoor activities.
  • Wear an N95 mask.
  • Change out of outdoor clothes when returning home.

Read Next: Simple Way To Find Out How Smoky The Skies Will Be In Montana