Now that most people feel safe not wearing masks indoors, they have started to wear masks outdoors due to air quality problems, primarily caused by the raging forest fires in Canada this year. The issue of poor air quality came to the attention of many people in early June when the skies on the East Coast turned a strange orange color temporarily. Now, individuals are not only checking the weather forecast in the morning but also the Air Quality Index (AQI) to determine whether it is safe to engage in outdoor activities like running or taking children to the park. The term AQI has quickly become as familiar as the term covid-19 was three years ago.
But what exactly is AQI? According to the National Weather Service, the EPA calculates AQI for five major air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act, which include ground-level ozone, particle pollution, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. The most concerning pollutants are ground-level ozone and airborne particles. The recent forest fires in Canada have caused an increase in airborne particles, which can be inhaled and lead to significant health problems, especially if they are smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter. If particles are smaller than 2.5 micrometers, the health risks can be even more severe. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the AQI in your area to monitor whether it is safe to engage in outdoor activities or if you should limit your exposure, especially if you have sensitivities.
Fortunately, there are several apps available to monitor local AQI. Each app differs in terms of data sources, information provided, and whether they use their own sensors. However, they all use color-coded AQI ratings to guide individuals about the air quality. Most apps follow the index provided by the EPA, which includes different categories such as green (good), yellow (caution), orange (avoid outdoor activities for sensitive individuals), red (take precautions), purple (everyone is at risk), and maroon (emergency situation).
The accuracy of the AQI ratings presented by these apps is difficult to determine as it depends on various factors such as when and where the readings are taken, the sensitivity and location of sensors, and the algorithms used to compile the data. Different apps may provide slightly different readings at any given time, but they should generally fall within a similar range.
Below is a list of apps that provide information about local AQI, along with their data sources and available features:
1. AirNow (Mobile apps: Android / iOS)
– Offers the latest AQI rating from the EPA and provides a forecast for the next few days.
– Shows a map of the general area with air quality conditions.
– Data source: IQ Air Visual Air Quality Measurements collected by state, local, or tribal monitoring agencies using approved monitoring methods.
2. IQAir (Mobile apps: Android / iOS)
– Compiles data from government sources and its own network of air quality sensors.
– Provides ratings for specific areas and allows users to monitor their own sensors.
– Offers current weather, a three-day forecast, and a seven-day forecast.
– Data source: AirVisual’s real-time AI-based system that collects data from ground-based air quality monitors operated by various organizations.
3. Plume Labs by Accuweather (Mobile apps: Android / iOS)
– Provides hour-to-hour color-coded air quality information and a three-day forecast.
– Offers activity-specific tips based on the current air quality.
– Data source: Uses WHO guidelines, EPA standards, and other scientific studies to define the Plume AQI.
4. AirCare (Mobile apps: Android / iOS)
– Displays the current AQI, pollen index, and UV index.
– Provides a breakdown of various pollutants in the area.
– Allows users to contribute to the air quality data by taking photos and reporting pollution.
– Data source: Uses a combination of government guidelines and user-contributed data.
It is important to note that these apps serve as guidelines, and individual usage may vary depending on specific needs and sensitivities. The data provided by these apps should be used to make informed decisions about engaging in outdoor activities and protecting one’s health.
In conclusion, the increasing concern over air quality due to forest fires in Canada has led to a rise in the use of apps to monitor AQI. These apps provide color-coded ratings based on the EPA’s guidelines to help individuals determine the health of the air around them. While the accuracy of the data may vary between apps, they offer valuable information to guide individuals in making decisions about outdoor activities and limiting exposure to poor air quality. By staying informed about the AQI in their area, individuals can take necessary precautions to protect their health and well-being.
