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Outdoor air quality

A photograph of downtown Seattle with extreme wildfire smoke creating an orange haze and obscuring the view

When the outdoor air quality index reaches (or is expected to reach) unhealthy levels for an extended period of time, the University of Washington’s Emergency Management office coordinates the UW’s response and convenes UW’s Weather Status Assessment Group.

Causes of unhealthy air quality

AQI logoVehicle exhaust, wood stove emissions, industrial emissions, wildfire smoke, windblown dust and other sources contain fine particles with diameters 2.5 micrometers or smaller (PM2.5) that can be harmful to your health. Other common air pollutants include ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, lead, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.

Check air quality

Thinking about working or relaxing outdoors today? Check the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency air quality sensor map for information about air quality.

Air Quality Index (AQI)

* Information from the Washington State Department of Health, Washington Department of Ecology and UW Environmental Health & Safety.

Youth programs

Schools, camps, sports teams and childcare providers should make plans for wildfire smoke and unhealthy air quality. Follow University guidance on wildfire smoke and air quality published by the Office of the Youth Protection Coordinator.

Reduce your exposure

  • Limit duration and intensity of outside physical activity.
  • Consider remote work or implementing your department’s business continuity plan.
  • Stay inside with cleaner indoor air: Close windows and doors, unless it is too hot to maintain safe temperatures.
  • Don’t add to indoor air pollution, such as cigarette smoking or burning candles.
  • Filter indoor air through an HVAC system, HEPA portable air cleaner, or DIY box fan filter. Set air conditioning to recirculate.
  • If unable to maintain clean air at home, go elsewhere for cleaner air such as a friend’s place, public space, or unimpacted area.
  • Review requirements for worker safety on UW’s Environmental Health & Safety website.

Outdoor air quality alerts

If the UW limits or suspends operations due to unhealthy outdoor air quality, information will be shared via: