The Air Quality Index Scale (cont.)
Click on the different levels of the the Air Quality Index to see the varying health impacts at each rank of the scale.
GOOD
- Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
MODERATE
- Air quality is acceptable; however, for some pollutants there may be a moderate health concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE GROUPS
- Members of sensitive groups, including children and the elderly and those with certain heart and lung diseases, may experience health effects. The general public is not likely to be affected.
UNHEALTHY
- Everyone may begin to experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. Avoid extended outdoor activities, especially those with lung and heart diseases.
VERY UNHEALTHY
- Health alert: Everyone may experience more serious health effects, though children, adults with lung or heart disease and the elderly should limit outdoor exertions.
HAZARDOUS
- Health warnings of emergency conditions. The entire population is more likely to be affected. Everyone should avoid exertion and limit outdoor activities.