Air Quality Forecasting

Current estimated air quality index and forecasts by region

Forecasts updated April 3, 2020 2:06 pm EDT.

About Air Quality

IDEM monitors level of ozone and particle pollution from stations around Indiana. Both of these are pollutants that, at high levels, may raise health concerns in some people.

Ground-level ozone is the main ingredient in smog. It is a colorless gas formed by the reaction of sunlight with vehicle emissions, gasoline fumes, solvent vapors, and power plant and industrial emissions. Ozone formation is most likely in hot, dry weather when the air is fairly still.

Particle pollution monitoring is now available on the web for select areas in Indiana. Particle pollution is made up of particles found in soot, dust, smoke, and fumes. The burning of coal, oil, diesel, and other fuels produces these particles. The particles are small enough to enter deep into the lungs and cause health problems.

Ozone and particle pollution have been linked to short-term health concerns, particularly among children, asthmatics, people with heart or lung disease, and older adults. The effects of these pollutants can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise when levels are high. You can use the forecast for the following day to plan your activities during the summer months. More information on the health effects of air pollutants is available from AirNow.

What Can I Do?

• Be aware. Keep an eye on the pollutant levels and forecasts for your area.
• When levels are high, stay inside if you can. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
• Help keep pollutant levels low by avoiding unnecessary fuel consumption. Use carpools and fuel-efficient vehicles.
• Avoid the use of any other gasoline engines, such as mowers and other lawn equipment, or boat motors.
• Save power by turning off lights and appliances when they are not needed.
• Avoid burning yard debris or brush.

PLEASE NOTE: This data has not been verified by the IDEM and may change. This is the most current data, but it is not official until it has been certified by our technical staff. Data is collected from IDEM ambient monitoring sites and may include data collected by other outside agencies. This data is updated hourly. All times shown are in local standard time unless otherwise indicated.