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Learn about Permian Health's innovative approach to improving air quality in Gambia, using cutting-edge technology to reveal invisible pollutants and safeguard public health.

","content","In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors. A vision born from necessity Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted. Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air. “There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health The journey of Permian Health Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside. \"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\" Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions. Dr Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.” “The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.” Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March. Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data. Pioneering work on the ground To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\" This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said. However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues. ‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained. Uniting minds and garnering accolades To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project. A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data. \"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray. This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country. Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors. With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors. Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award highlights the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further. Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment. Hopes for the Future Thanks to their recent Air Quality Award, Permian Health acquired an 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia. Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed. Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia. “We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.” \"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\" A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan. According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\" \"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network. The takeaway Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders. Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond monitoring; it's about transforming the fabric of public health through the lens of air quality.","contentHtml","

In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors.

A vision born from necessity

Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted.

Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.

“There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”

–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health

The journey of Permian Health

Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside.

\"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\"

\nHighlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality\n

Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions.

$\"\"$

Dr Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.”

“The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.”

Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March.

Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data.

Pioneering work on the ground

To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia.

\"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\"

This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said.

However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues.

‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained.

Uniting minds and garnering accolades

To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project.

A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data.

\"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray.

This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country.

Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors.

With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors.

Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award highlights the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further.

Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment.

Hopes for the Future

Thanks to their recent Air Quality Award, Permian Health acquired an 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia.

$\"\"$

Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed.

Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia.

“We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.”

\"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\"

A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan.

According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\"

\"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network.

The takeaway

Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders.

Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond monitoring; it's about transforming the fabric of public health through the lens of air quality.

","handle","permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","id","gid://shopify/Article/634018988110","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","trackingParameters","publishedAt","2025-03-24T17:00:00Z","tags",[88,89,90],"title","Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s Air Quality Crusade in Gambia","image",{"_66":79,"_80":81,"_82":83,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269813416014","altText","Man working on pole","url","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/PermianHealth_Desk_A_e25c0fb4-f682-4892-bbc6-5c8e0d753ac9.jpg?v=1754481444","width",2880,"height",1500,"Community","Featured Contributor","Success Stories","news","name","IQAir Staff Writers",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.","

WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.

","In Pakistan, where vast horizons stretch beneath seemingly clear skies, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of data and awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen. Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed 15 stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat. \"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan. As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.” Pakistan's Air Quality Challenge Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data. \"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions, and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained. WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan. “Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data. With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country. Rolling Out Pakistan’s Air Quality Network WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing a total of air quality sensors in 15 key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. All 15 stations are currently up and running. Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change. Air Quality Data in Action With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan. \"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.” Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives. Vision For the Future WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data. \"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution. The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\" “Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.” Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 70 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2024 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony. Conclusion WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters. “This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”","

In Pakistan, where vast horizons stretch beneath seemingly clear skies, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of data and awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen.

Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed 15 stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat.

\"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan.

As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.”

Pakistan's Air Quality Challenge

Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data.

\"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions, and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained.

WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan.

“Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data.

With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country.

Rolling Out Pakistan’s Air Quality Network

WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing a total of air quality sensors in 15 key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. All 15 stations are currently up and running.

Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change.

Air Quality Data in Action

With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan.

\"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.”

Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives.

Vision For the Future

WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data.

\"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution.

The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\"

“Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.”

Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 70 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2024 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony.

Conclusion

WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters.

“This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”

","revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","gid://shopify/Article/634659078222","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","2025-11-12T17:43:22Z",[88,89,90],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_66":107,"_80":108,"_82":109,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/270766047310","WWF Team standing Next to Solar Panel","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_PakistanContributor_Desk_A_1ed3d785-94f0-4a6f-af87-5d895532bd30.jpg?v=1762969405",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.","

Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.

","“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.” In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data. Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning. \"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.” “It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.” Local expertise, global resources drive innovation Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight. The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity. The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life. These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa. By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa. The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people. While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives. Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said. Cultivating environmental consciousness Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.” “Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.” Conclusion From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.","

“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.”

In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data.

Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air

In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning.

\"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.”

“It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.”

Local expertise, global resources drive innovation

Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight.

The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity.

The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life.

These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa.

By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa.

The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa

The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people.

While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.

Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives.

Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow

Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.

The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said.

Cultivating environmental consciousness

Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"

Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.”

“Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.”

Conclusion

From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.

Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.

Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.

","revealing-the-invisible-kenya","gid://shopify/Article/634090586190","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-kenya","2025-12-01T13:00:00Z",[89,90],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_66":123,"_80":124,"_82":125,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273486184526","Nairobi-city-smog","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Revamp_Kenya_Clean_Air_Desktop_cd749b43-0150-45f4-a731-3aaad86eb4f3.jpg?v=1779905052",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"A Detroit childcare center is prioritizing clean air technology in early childhood education. Discover how air quality awareness is changing lives and influencing the next generation.","

A Detroit childcare center is prioritizing clean air technology in early childhood education. Discover how air quality awareness is changing lives and influencing the next generation.

","Air quality awareness and clean air environments are all too often a second thought within busy classrooms, where immediate challenges and childcare obstacles take over. However, in Detroit, Michigan, an early education center is reshaping their air quality concerns and the well-being of their students. Founded by Sentra Johnson-Smith, Sent Loves the Kids Development Center has meshed early education with air quality awareness and data collection through the installation of clean air technology. In partnership with IQAir and the Clean Air for Kids initiative, the Michigan childcare center is leading the charge in bringing pollution awareness through air quality monitoring and filtration to the early childhood education space. Children need clean, safe learning environments Sent Loves the Kids was born from Johnson-Smith's natural connection to children and her desire to holistically shape their early developmental stages. She aims to provide foundational education alongside physical and mental well-being for her students through comprehensive childcare and community connections (1). “Sent Loves The Kids was founded out of my deep love for children and my strong desire to be part of their educational journey,” said Johnson-Smith. “My goal is to nurture and educate the whole child—mind, body, and soul.” In Detroit and other large populous cities alike, these childcare facilities face unique environmental challenges. From urban air pollution to possible lead exposure in water supplies, harmful pollutants can go undetected and sneak into indoor spaces from outside environments. Especially in fast-paced childcare settings, air pollution and environmental concerns can go unnoticed or overshadowed by immediate demands. “Before receiving [an] air monitor, air quality wasn’t on my mind,” Johnson-Smith admitted. “When managing the day-to-day demands of running a facility, air quality was at the bottom of the list.” However, after partnering with IQAir and receiving air quality technology, Johnson-Smith has created a clean air environment for her students and reformed early education learning to encompass air quality awareness. Clean air environments in educational spaces Safe environments and clean air quality are essential to providing a productive learning space for students to thrive in. For children with asthma or allergies, air quality is a daily concern. By employing the Atem X air purifier, the Sent Loves the Kids facility can actively airborne pollutants and produce clean air for students to feel comfortable and safe. “By monitoring the air quality more closely, we can take immediate action when needed, such as adjusting indoor activities or ensuring that children with respiratory conditions are not exposed to triggers,” Johnson-Smith said. Multiple studies have shown children and infants to be among the most vulnerable populations affected by poor air quality. Childhood exposure to long-term air pollution can lead to harmful chronic impacts related to lung development, respiratory health, and asthma (2)(3). However, the utilization of air purifiers and air cleaning tools can drastically lower these risks and improve symptoms. With support from IQAir and the Clean Air for Kids Initiative, Sent Loves the Kids now provides a safe environment for teachers, students, and faculty alike through clean air technology and monitoring. Early education meets air quality awareness With access to real-time air quality monitors that detail various air pollutants and air quality levels, what once was invisible has become impossible to ignore for the Sent Loves the Kids facility. Data collection and air quality monitoring has allowed Johnson-Smith to build safeguards around child healthcare and create immersive lesson plans surrounding local air quality environments. Sent Loves the Kids takes air quality awareness a step further, teaching the next generation about environmental impact and air quality safety. According to Johnson-Smith, “incorporating air quality awareness into our educational programming not only aligns with our mission to provide a nurturing and safe environment but also helps children understand the importance of caring for their health and the planet.” After setting up the AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor, Johnson-Smith noticed more air quality events and pollutant concerns, modifying school schedules and activities to maintain a safe environment for children and faculty alike. With the combination of clean air filtration and monitoring, Sent Loves the Kids has become a safe breathing and learning environment for students and teachers alike. Conclusion Sent Loves the Kids proves that meaningful childcare changes doesn’t require a large facility or financial burdens. Through air quality monitoring, filtration, and environmental education, Johnson-Smith is laying the groundwork for the next generation to breathe easier and healthier. With the support of IQAir science-backed air quality technology and a passionate mission, any childcare provider or community facility can make an impactful difference in lives of children, families, and the broader local community.","

Air quality awareness and clean air environments are all too often a second thought within busy classrooms, where immediate challenges and childcare obstacles take over. However, in Detroit, Michigan, an early education center is reshaping their air quality concerns and the well-being of their students.

Founded by Sentra Johnson-Smith, Sent Loves the Kids Development Center has meshed early education with air quality awareness and data collection through the installation of clean air technology. In partnership with IQAir and the Clean Air for Kids initiative, the Michigan childcare center is leading the charge in bringing pollution awareness through air quality monitoring and filtration to the early childhood education space.

Children need clean, safe learning environments

Sent Loves the Kids was born from Johnson-Smith's natural connection to children and her desire to holistically shape their early developmental stages. She aims to provide foundational education alongside physical and mental well-being for her students through comprehensive childcare and community connections (1).

“Sent Loves The Kids was founded out of my deep love for children and my strong desire to be part of their educational journey,” said Johnson-Smith. “My goal is to nurture and educate the whole child—mind, body, and soul.”

In Detroit and other large populous cities alike, these childcare facilities face unique environmental challenges. From urban air pollution to possible lead exposure in water supplies, harmful pollutants can go undetected and sneak into indoor spaces from outside environments. Especially in fast-paced childcare settings, air pollution and environmental concerns can go unnoticed or overshadowed by immediate demands.

“Before receiving [an] air monitor, air quality wasn’t on my mind,” Johnson-Smith admitted. “When managing the day-to-day demands of running a facility, air quality was at the bottom of the list.”

However, after partnering with IQAir and receiving air quality technology, Johnson-Smith has created a clean air environment for her students and reformed early education learning to encompass air quality awareness.

Clean air environments in educational spaces

Safe environments and clean air quality are essential to providing a productive learning space for students to thrive in. For children with asthma or allergies, air quality is a daily concern. By employing the Atem X air purifier, the Sent Loves the Kids facility can actively airborne pollutants and produce clean air for students to feel comfortable and safe.

“By monitoring the air quality more closely, we can take immediate action when needed, such as adjusting indoor activities or ensuring that children with respiratory conditions are not exposed to triggers,” Johnson-Smith said.

Multiple studies have shown children and infants to be among the most vulnerable populations affected by poor air quality. Childhood exposure to long-term air pollution can lead to harmful chronic impacts related to lung development, respiratory health, and asthma (2)(3). However, the utilization of air purifiers and air cleaning tools can drastically lower these risks and improve symptoms.

With support from IQAir and the Clean Air for Kids Initiative, Sent Loves the Kids now provides a safe environment for teachers, students, and faculty alike through clean air technology and monitoring.

Early education meets air quality awareness

With access to real-time air quality monitors that detail various air pollutants and air quality levels, what once was invisible has become impossible to ignore for the Sent Loves the Kids facility.

Data collection and air quality monitoring has allowed Johnson-Smith to build safeguards around child healthcare and create immersive lesson plans surrounding local air quality environments. Sent Loves the Kids takes air quality awareness a step further, teaching the next generation about environmental impact and air quality safety.

According to Johnson-Smith, “incorporating air quality awareness into our educational programming not only aligns with our mission to provide a nurturing and safe environment but also helps children understand the importance of caring for their health and the planet.”

After setting up the AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor, Johnson-Smith noticed more air quality events and pollutant concerns, modifying school schedules and activities to maintain a safe environment for children and faculty alike. With the combination of clean air filtration and monitoring, Sent Loves the Kids has become a safe breathing and learning environment for students and teachers alike.

Conclusion

Sent Loves the Kids proves that meaningful childcare changes doesn’t require a large facility or financial burdens. Through air quality monitoring, filtration, and environmental education, Johnson-Smith is laying the groundwork for the next generation to breathe easier and healthier.

With the support of IQAir science-backed air quality technology and a passionate mission, any childcare provider or community facility can make an impactful difference in lives of children, families, and the broader local community.

","detroit-childcare-center-embraces-clean-air","gid://shopify/Article/641902870606","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/detroit-childcare-center-embraces-clean-air","2026-07-20T17:10:02Z",[88,90],"Detroit childcare center achieves clean air and data monitoring awareness",{"_66":139,"_80":-5,"_82":140,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274616647758","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/A_53a90991-5f39-4284-a91b-6473a61b97bb.jpg?v=1786554677",839,674,{"_51":52,"_53":195,"_11":196,"_56":197,"_58":197,"_60":198,"_62":199,"_64":200,"_66":201,"_68":202,"_70":-5,"_71":203,"_73":204,"_75":205,"_77":206},{"_51":52,"_53":179,"_11":180,"_56":181,"_58":181,"_60":182,"_62":183,"_64":184,"_66":185,"_68":186,"_70":-5,"_71":187,"_73":188,"_75":189,"_77":190},{"_51":52,"_53":164,"_11":165,"_56":166,"_58":166,"_60":167,"_62":168,"_64":169,"_66":170,"_68":171,"_70":-5,"_71":172,"_73":173,"_75":174,"_77":175},{"_51":52,"_53":147,"_11":148,"_56":149,"_58":149,"_60":150,"_62":151,"_64":152,"_66":153,"_68":154,"_70":-5,"_71":155,"_73":156,"_75":157,"_77":158},{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Learn more how scented candles release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit — and can harm your health.","Are scented candles bad for you?Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.Paraffin waxAre paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like: alkenes acetone benzene toluene These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).Is burning candles bad for you?In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including: allergies asthma COPD (5) respiratory tract infections heart attacks strokes cancer So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).Chemical fragrancesAnother problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7): formaldehyde petroleum distillates limonene alcohol esters These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as: headaches dizziness allergy symptoms asthma attacks respiratory tract infections cancer Cored wicksMany candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).Safer alternativesTo limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air: Use essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma. Simmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove. Create potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home. The takeawayLighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.","

Are scented candles bad for you?

Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.

Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.

Paraffin wax

Are paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?

According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).

Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like:

alkenes
acetone
benzene
toluene

These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.

A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).

Is burning candles bad for you?

In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).

A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).

Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including:

allergies
asthma
COPD (5)
respiratory tract infections
heart attacks
strokes
cancer

So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).

Chemical fragrances

Another problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7):

formaldehyde
petroleum distillates
limonene
alcohol
esters

These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as:

headaches
dizziness
allergy symptoms
asthma attacks
respiratory tract infections
cancer
\n\n\t

Cored wicks

Many candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.

Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.

All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.

However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).

Safer alternatives

To limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).

If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air:

\nUse essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma.
\nSimmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove.
\nCreate potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home.

The takeaway

Lighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.

","hidden-dangers-scented-candles","gid://shopify/Article/564925464654","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/hidden-dangers-scented-candles","2016-12-04T22:35:53Z",[162,163],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_66":159,"_80":160,"_82":161,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269279461454","Two lit candles","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/49_scented_desktop_RE_8f4a0295-45a8-421d-870a-900787fa96cc.jpg?v=1749633122","Health and Wellness","Popular articles",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"They look great on your nightstand, but are they worth their salt as air purifiers? Learn more.","Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?Again, two words: negative ionization.If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.1 Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.2The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O3).There are two main types of ozone: Stratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Tropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke. Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including: Coughing Wheezing Trouble breathing Stuffy nose Dizziness Tingling in arms and legs Fever3,4 Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:5 Stable air temperature Moderate to high humidity Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium Lack of airborne pollutants Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.6Take the claims with a grain of...well, saltSo here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead: Be aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes. Control sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions. Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%. Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites. Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas. Ventilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels. Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good. Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking. Use an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone. Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.","

Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.

These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.

They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.

But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.

A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.

And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.

Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?

Again, two words: negative ionization.

If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.

In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.

This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.¹ Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.

The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.

Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.²

The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.

And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O₃).

There are two main types of ozone:

\nStratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
\nTropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke.

Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.

If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including:

Coughing
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Stuffy nose
Dizziness
Tingling in arms and legs
Fever^3,4\n

Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.

So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.

So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?

So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?

The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.

Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:⁵

Stable air temperature
Moderate to high humidity
Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium
Lack of airborne pollutants

Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.⁶

Take the claims with a grain of...well, salt

So here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.

But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.

You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead:

\nBe aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes.
\nControl sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions.\n\n\t
- Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%.
- Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites.
- Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas.
\n\n\t
\nVentilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels.\n\n\t
- Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good.
- Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking.
\n\n\t
\nUse an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone.

Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.
\n\n

","himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/564925366350","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","2019-06-17T13:49:29Z",[14,162,163],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_66":176,"_80":177,"_82":178,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269475545166","Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_HimalayanSalt_061419_750_0b979b61-4b6f-4eeb-8061-88996d52278e.jpg?v=1751543619",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"How can you know what air purifier manufacturers to trust? Let's look more critically at air purification.","The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification. But not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction. What should I look for in an air purifier? Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier. 1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry. What is a HEPA filter? High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market. But it wasn’t always that way. Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1). Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2). HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants. In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3). Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size. 2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal. All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA. To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4). The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5). So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6). Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less. Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media. 3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA. While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air. Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in. How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think: Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen. Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields. Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter). Air passes through the activated carbon bed. Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area. Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8). Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to. The takeaway Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are: HyperHEPA media for particle filtration No system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing Activated carbon for gas and odor filtration But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier. What should I avoid in an air purifier? When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited. But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase. So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health. Ionizer air purifiers Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture. Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10). But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12): Ionizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions. Ionizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations. Verdict Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.” Ozone Generators It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13). Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm. However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18): Ozone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases. Ozone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children. Indoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks. Verdict Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets. UV Light Purifiers Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20). One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI. In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21). But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26): Bacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful. Some bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light. UV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5. Many UV air purifiers produce ozone. UV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer. Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter. Verdict Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated. What do I do now? At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system. So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality: Get a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence. Use advanced gas-phase filtration. Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon. The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration. Use a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere. Install a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality. Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs. The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.","

The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification.

But not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction.

What should I look for in an air purifier?

Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier.

$\"Air$

1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry.

What is a HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market.

But it wasn’t always that way.

Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1).

Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2).

HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants.

In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3).

Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.

The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems.

Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size.

2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal.

All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA.

To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4).

The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5).

So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6).

Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less.

Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media.

3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA.

While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air.

Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in.

How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think:

Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen.
Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields.
Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter).
Air passes through the activated carbon bed.
Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area.

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8).

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes.

Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to.

The takeaway

Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are:

\nHyperHEPA media for particle filtration
\nNo system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing
\nActivated carbon for gas and odor filtration

But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier.

What should I avoid in an air purifier?

When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited.

But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase.

So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health.

Ionizer air purifiers

Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture.

Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10).

But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12):

\nIonizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions.
\nIonizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. \n

Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations.

Verdict

Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.”

Ozone Generators

It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13).

Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm.

However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18):

\nOzone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases.
\nOzone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children.
\nIndoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks.

Verdict

Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets.

UV Light Purifiers

Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20).

One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI.

In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21).

But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26):

\nBacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful.
\nSome bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light.
\nUV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5.
Many UV air purifiers produce ozone.
\nUV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer.

Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter.

Verdict

Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated.

What do I do now?

At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system.

So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality:

\nGet a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence.
\nUse advanced gas-phase filtration.\n
- Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon.
- The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration.
\n
\nUse a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere.
\nInstall a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality.

Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs.

The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.

","do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/564925431886","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","2022-01-02T14:14:32Z",[194,162,163],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_66":191,"_80":192,"_82":193,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/270220755022","Close-up of what appears to be a room air purifier with some plants in the background (another indoor air purifying tool that has been shown to be ineffective in improving indoor air quality).","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_misconceptions-about-air-purifiers_993189ad-b0e5-4283-84af-8cf2c530fc4d.jpg?v=1758212556","Air Cleaning Technology",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Learn why wildfire smoke poses a health risk to people living far downwind and what you can do to help protect yourself.","When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation. The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation. Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways: by robbing it of oxygen through particulate matter irritation Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.1 Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke. What’s in wildfire smoke? Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire. Wildfire smoke often contains: water vapor particulate matter trace minerals carbon dioxide carbon monoxide nitrogen oxides hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O3) levels volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants) Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body. Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including: the types of wood and vegetation burning the moisture content the fire temperature wind conditions other weather-related influences The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health. Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs. The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body. Clean the air with high-performance air filtration Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers Click here Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:2 Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition. Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population. Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease. Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk. Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.3 The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.4 Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.5 The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition. How wildfire smoke behaves Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as: weather geographical terrain the stage of the fire wind Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you. Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact. Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts. Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.6 Wildfire safety tips Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires. Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires. Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available. Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help. Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants. Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO2 from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire. Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO2, and NO2, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health. Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions. During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air. The takeaway Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source. Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks. By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.","

When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation.

The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.

Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways:

by robbing it of oxygen
through particulate matter irritation

Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.¹

Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke.

What’s in wildfire smoke?

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire.

Wildfire smoke often contains:

\n
water vapor
\n
\n
particulate matter
\n
\n
trace minerals
\n
\n
carbon dioxide
\n
\n
carbon monoxide
\n
\n
nitrogen oxides
\n
\n
hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O₃) levels
\n
\n
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants)
\n

Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body.

$\"What's$

Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir

Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including:

\n
the types of wood and vegetation burning
\n

\n
the moisture content
\n
\n
the fire temperature
\n
\n
wind conditions
\n
\n
other weather-related influences
\n

The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health.

Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs.

The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body.

Clean the air with high-performance air filtration
Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers

Click here

Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations

Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:²

\n
Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition.
\n
\n
Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population.
\n
\n
Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease.
\n
\n
Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk.
\n
\n
Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia.
\n

Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.³

The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.⁴

Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.⁵ The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition.

 Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition.

How wildfire smoke behaves

Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as:

\n
weather
\n
\n
geographical terrain
\n
\n
the stage of the fire
\n
\n
wind
\n

Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you.

$\"placeholder$

Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact.

Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts.

Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.⁶

Wildfire safety tips

Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires.

\n
Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires.
\n
\n
Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available.
\n
\n
Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help.
\n
\n
Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants.
\n
\n
Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO₂ from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire.
\n
\n
Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO₂, and NO₂, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health.
\n

$\"Google$ $\"App$ $\"Android\"$

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air.

The takeaway

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source.

Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks.

By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.

","how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/564925399118","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","2022-12-29T21:46:38Z",[14,210,163,211],"How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_66":207,"_80":208,"_82":209,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273488543822","Wildfire at night in hills","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_21_WildfireDesktop_a_a8a07ca3-c3c0-4315-854e-f2a5aa9b0f22.jpg?v=1779917272","Climate","Wildfires",{"_51":52,"_53":299,"_11":300,"_56":301,"_58":302,"_60":303,"_62":304,"_64":305,"_66":306,"_68":307,"_70":-5,"_71":308,"_73":309,"_75":310,"_77":311},{"_51":52,"_53":284,"_11":285,"_56":286,"_58":287,"_60":288,"_62":289,"_64":290,"_66":291,"_68":292,"_70":-5,"_71":293,"_73":294,"_75":295,"_77":296},{"_51":52,"_53":269,"_11":270,"_56":271,"_58":272,"_60":273,"_62":274,"_64":275,"_66":276,"_68":277,"_70":-5,"_71":278,"_73":279,"_75":280,"_77":281},{"_51":52,"_53":254,"_11":255,"_56":256,"_58":257,"_60":258,"_62":259,"_64":260,"_66":261,"_68":262,"_70":-5,"_71":263,"_73":264,"_75":265,"_77":266},{"_51":52,"_53":238,"_11":239,"_56":240,"_58":241,"_60":242,"_62":243,"_64":244,"_66":245,"_68":246,"_70":-5,"_71":247,"_73":248,"_75":249,"_77":250},{"_51":52,"_53":218,"_11":219,"_56":220,"_58":221,"_60":222,"_62":223,"_64":224,"_66":225,"_68":226,"_70":-5,"_71":227,"_73":228,"_75":229,"_77":230},{"_92":237},{"_64":91},"Air quality can be an invisible risk in classrooms, disturbing lessons and focus levels. Discover why unhealthy air is disproportionate and the impacts on student learning.","

Air quality can be an invisible risk in classrooms, disturbing lessons and focus levels. Discover why unhealthy air is disproportionate and the impacts on student learning.

","As millions of children return to school this August, parents and teachers are thinking about the year ahead. Are classrooms safe? Is the drinking water clean? Are buildings prepared for another year of learning? There is another question we should be asking: What are our children breathing while they are at school? Air quality is one of the most overlooked factors in creating a healthy learning environment. We have established clear expectations around clean drinking water, but we have been much slower to recognize that the air children breathe for six or more hours a day deserves the same attention. This is especially true for schools located near major roads and freeways. The freeway next door Across the United States, thousands of schools are located near busy highways and major transportation corridors. A nationwide study of more than 114,000 U.S. public and private schools found that about 15% of those studied were within 250 meters, or roughly 820 feet, of a major roadway. The study estimated that 6.4 million students attended those schools. The EPA has similarly highlighted that nearly 17,000 schools are within one-tenth of a mile, or 100 meters, of a major road. Vehicle pollutant concentrations tend to be higher closer to roadways, with the highest levels generally occurring within the first 500 feet.These numbers represent millions of children spending their school days near a significant source of air pollution. Vehicles produce pollutants including fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. These pollutants can enter school buildings through ventilation systems, open doors and windows, cracks, and other pathways. A child can spend most of their school day indoors and still be exposed to pollution generated just outside the school walls. I’ve seen this firsthand in Boyle Heights, California. Surrounded by major interstate freeways, schools in the area bear a disproportionate pollution burden compared with schools farther from major roadways. IQAir installed air quality monitors and filtration systems in schools there because we recognized the importance of understanding what students were breathing and taking action to improve the air. Boyle Heights is one example of a much larger challenge. The same nationwide study found that schools serving predominantly Black students were 18% more likely to be located within 250 meters of a major roadway. Schools serving more economically disadvantaged students were also more likely to be located near major roads. The burden of traffic-related air pollution is not distributed equally. For many communities, where a child goes to school can influence the quality of the air they breathe. Map A displays the number of students attending a US school within 250 meters of a roadway in 2014, while Map B shows total percentages. Source: National Institutes of Health National Library of Medicine Children are more vulnerable Children are not simply small adults. Their lungs are still developing, they breathe more air relative to their body size, and they spend a significant portion of their day in schools. The World Health Organization estimates that 99% of children worldwide breathe air that exceeds its air quality guidelines. In the United States, the EPA estimates that children spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. Exposure to air pollution during childhood has been associated with respiratory problems, including asthma, and can affect developing lungs. If a school is next to a freeway, understanding outdoor air quality should be part of understanding indoor air quality. We can't manage what we don't measure Air pollution is difficult to address because much of it is invisible. A classroom can look clean while containing elevated levels of particulate matter or other pollutants. That is why schools need reliable air quality monitoring. Monitoring can help identify changes throughout the day, reveal differences between indoor and outdoor conditions, and determine whether ventilation and filtration strategies are effective. For schools near freeways, this information is particularly valuable. Pollution levels can vary based on traffic patterns, weather, and other conditions. Continuous monitoring can help identify when and where exposure risks may be greatest. But monitoring is only the first step. Schools also need the ability to improve the air they measure through proper HVAC maintenance, effective ventilation, reducing indoor pollution sources, and high-efficiency filtration. For schools affected by outdoor particulate pollution, filtration can be particularly important. Medical-grade filtration technologies, such as HyperHEPA, are designed to capture extremely small particles and can help reduce fine particulate matter indoors. The objective is simple: Reduce children's exposure to harmful pollutants wherever we can. Clean air is part of learning Children are at school to learn, and the physical environment can influence their ability to focus and perform. Poor indoor air quality can contribute to headaches, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms, while research has connected better ventilation with improved cognitive performance. We invest enormous resources in teachers, technology, curriculum, and school facilities because we understand that the environment in which children learn matters. Clean air should be part of that equation. It should not be acceptable for a child attending a school next to a freeway to face a greater pollution burden simply because of where their school happens to be located. Communities near major transportation corridors and other pollution sources are often disproportionately low-income communities and communities of color, creating a significant environmental justice concern. We cannot accept a system where access to clean air depends on a school's ZIP code. We have rightly made clean drinking water a basic expectation for schools. Clean air deserves the same level of attention. As students return to classrooms this fall, every school should be asking three questions: What is the quality of the air our students are breathing? How does the air outside affect the air inside? What can we do to make that air cleaner? The answers will be different for every school. But the responsibility is the same.We need to know what children are breathing. We need to understand the risks. And we need to act. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn in a healthy environment. Clean air should not be an added benefit for schools that can afford it. It should be a fundamental part of what we consider a safe school. When we send our children back to school, we should think not only about what they will learn, but about the air they will breathe while they’re learning.","

As millions of children return to school this August, parents and teachers are thinking about the year ahead. Are classrooms safe? Is the drinking water clean? Are buildings prepared for another year of learning?

There is another question we should be asking: What are our children breathing while they are at school?

Air quality is one of the most overlooked factors in creating a healthy learning environment. We have established clear expectations around clean drinking water, but we have been much slower to recognize that the air children breathe for six or more hours a day deserves the same attention.

This is especially true for schools located near major roads and freeways.

The freeway next door

Across the United States, thousands of schools are located near busy highways and major transportation corridors. A nationwide study of more than 114,000 U.S. public and private schools found that about 15% of those studied were within 250 meters, or roughly 820 feet, of a major roadway. The study estimated that 6.4 million students attended those schools.

The EPA has similarly highlighted that nearly 17,000 schools are within one-tenth of a mile, or 100 meters, of a major road. Vehicle pollutant concentrations tend to be higher closer to roadways, with the highest levels generally occurring within the first 500 feet.
These numbers represent millions of children spending their school days near a significant source of air pollution.

Vehicles produce pollutants including fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. These pollutants can enter school buildings through ventilation systems, open doors and windows, cracks, and other pathways. A child can spend most of their school day indoors and still be exposed to pollution generated just outside the school walls.

I’ve seen this firsthand in Boyle Heights, California. Surrounded by major interstate freeways, schools in the area bear a disproportionate pollution burden compared with schools farther from major roadways. IQAir installed air quality monitors and filtration systems in schools there because we recognized the importance of understanding what students were breathing and taking action to improve the air.

Boyle Heights is one example of a much larger challenge.

The same nationwide study found that schools serving predominantly Black students were 18% more likely to be located within 250 meters of a major roadway. Schools serving more economically disadvantaged students were also more likely to be located near major roads.

The burden of traffic-related air pollution is not distributed equally. For many communities, where a child goes to school can influence the quality of the air they breathe.

$\"\"$

Map A displays the number of students attending a US school within 250 meters of a roadway in 2014, while Map B shows total percentages. Source: National Institutes of Health National Library of Medicine

Children are more vulnerable

Children are not simply small adults. Their lungs are still developing, they breathe more air relative to their body size, and they spend a significant portion of their day in schools.

The World Health Organization estimates that 99% of children worldwide breathe air that exceeds its air quality guidelines. In the United States, the EPA estimates that children spend approximately 90% of their time indoors.

Exposure to air pollution during childhood has been associated with respiratory problems, including asthma, and can affect developing lungs. If a school is next to a freeway, understanding outdoor air quality should be part of understanding indoor air quality.

We can't manage what we don't measure

Air pollution is difficult to address because much of it is invisible. A classroom can look clean while containing elevated levels of particulate matter or other pollutants.

That is why schools need reliable air quality monitoring. Monitoring can help identify changes throughout the day, reveal differences between indoor and outdoor conditions, and determine whether ventilation and filtration strategies are effective.

For schools near freeways, this information is particularly valuable. Pollution levels can vary based on traffic patterns, weather, and other conditions. Continuous monitoring can help identify when and where exposure risks may be greatest.

But monitoring is only the first step. Schools also need the ability to improve the air they measure through proper HVAC maintenance, effective ventilation, reducing indoor pollution sources, and high-efficiency filtration.

For schools affected by outdoor particulate pollution, filtration can be particularly important. Medical-grade filtration technologies, such as HyperHEPA, are designed to capture extremely small particles and can help reduce fine particulate matter indoors.

The objective is simple: Reduce children's exposure to harmful pollutants wherever we can.

Clean air is part of learning

Children are at school to learn, and the physical environment can influence their ability to focus and perform. Poor indoor air quality can contribute to headaches, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms, while research has connected better ventilation with improved cognitive performance.

We invest enormous resources in teachers, technology, curriculum, and school facilities because we understand that the environment in which children learn matters. Clean air should be part of that equation.

It should not be acceptable for a child attending a school next to a freeway to face a greater pollution burden simply because of where their school happens to be located. Communities near major transportation corridors and other pollution sources are often disproportionately low-income communities and communities of color, creating a significant environmental justice concern.

We cannot accept a system where access to clean air depends on a school's ZIP code.

We have rightly made clean drinking water a basic expectation for schools. Clean air deserves the same level of attention.

As students return to classrooms this fall, every school should be asking three questions:

What is the quality of the air our students are breathing?
How does the air outside affect the air inside?
What can we do to make that air cleaner?

The answers will be different for every school. But the responsibility is the same.
We need to know what children are breathing. We need to understand the risks. And we need to act.

Every child deserves the opportunity to learn in a healthy environment. Clean air should not be an added benefit for schools that can afford it. It should be a fundamental part of what we consider a safe school.

When we send our children back to school, we should think not only about what they will learn, but about the air they will breathe while they’re learning.

","the-back-to-school-risks-were-still-overlooking-the-air-children-breathe","gid://shopify/Article/642110292046","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/the-back-to-school-risks-were-still-overlooking-the-air-children-breathe","2026-08-20T12:00:04Z",[14,235,236],"The Back-To-School Risks We’re Still Overlooking: The Air Children Breathe",{"_66":231,"_80":-5,"_82":232,"_84":233,"_86":234},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274697683022","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/TL_BackToSchoolroadpollutio_Desktop_99cfbd0b-2387-485e-8906-824b6d640905.jpg?v=1787072275",1748,1404,"Parents","Thought Leadership","Glory Dolphin Hammes",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Find out more about the Kaiser Canyon Fire burning near Nespelem in Washington, including the latest containment, affected communities, and evacuation information.","

Find out more about the Kaiser Canyon Fire burning near Nespelem in Washington, including the latest containment, affected communities, and evacuation information.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of August 21, 2026, the Kaiser Canyon Fire is burning south of the 900 Block of Buffalo Lake Road S near Nespelem in Okanogan and Ferry counties, Washington. The wildfire has spread across portions of the Colville Reservation, threatening nearby communities and infrastructure while burning near the Columbia River, Owhi Flats, and the State Route 155 corridor (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the Kaiser Canyon Fire? The cities and areas affected by the Kaiser Canyon Fire include: Buffalo Lake Road Columbia River Campground Colville Ferry County Nespelem Okanogan County Owhi Flats Park City Loop Road Rebecca Lake Road State Route 155 corridor What is the current containment status of the Kaiser Canyon Fire? As of August 21, 2026, the Kaiser Canyon Fire has burned approximately 138,292 acres and remains 90% contained. Firefighters continue to focus on protecting homes, communities, and critical infrastructure while strengthening containment lines around the fire. Crews are using ground resources, heavy equipment, and aircraft where terrain and weather conditions allow. Forecasts of warmer, drier, and windier weather could increase fire activity over the coming days, potentially making containment efforts more difficult. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? A Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation order remains in effect in the immediate fire area. A Level 2 “Be Ready” warning covers surrounding areas, while a Level 1 “Ready” advisory is in effect in nearby communities. Residents should follow local evacuation guidance and monitor updates as conditions change. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of August 21, 2026, The Kaiser Canyon Fire is 90% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of August 21, 2026, the Kaiser Canyon Fire is burning south of the 900 Block of Buffalo Lake Road S near Nespelem in Okanogan and Ferry counties, Washington.

The wildfire has spread across portions of the Colville Reservation, threatening nearby communities and infrastructure while burning near the Columbia River, Owhi Flats, and the State Route 155 corridor (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the Kaiser Canyon Fire?

The cities and areas affected by the Kaiser Canyon Fire include:

Buffalo Lake Road
Columbia River Campground
Colville
Ferry County
Nespelem
Okanogan County
Owhi Flats
Park City Loop Road
Rebecca Lake Road
State Route 155 corridor

What is the current containment status of the Kaiser Canyon Fire?

As of August 21, 2026, the Kaiser Canyon Fire has burned approximately 138,292 acres and remains 90% contained.

Firefighters continue to focus on protecting homes, communities, and critical infrastructure while strengthening containment lines around the fire. Crews are using ground resources, heavy equipment, and aircraft where terrain and weather conditions allow.

Forecasts of warmer, drier, and windier weather could increase fire activity over the coming days, potentially making containment efforts more difficult.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

A Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation order remains in effect in the immediate fire area. A Level 2 “Be Ready” warning covers surrounding areas, while a Level 1 “Ready” advisory is in effect in nearby communities.

Residents should follow local evacuation guidance and monitor updates as conditions change.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of August 21, 2026, The Kaiser Canyon Fire is 90% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-kaiser-canyon-fire-washington","gid://shopify/Article/641919778894","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-kaiser-canyon-fire-washington","2026-08-21T10:45:16Z",[14,210,211],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Kaiser Canyon Fire, Washington",{"_66":251,"_80":252,"_82":253,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274741755982","Forest fire.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire9Desktop_cb13169d-667d-4e68-a334-fb9ced2a71ce.jpg?v=1787309131",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Find out more about the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires in Montana.","

Find out more about the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires in Montana.

","What are the names and locations of the wildfires? As of August 21, 2026, the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires are burning in Beaverhead County, Montana, within and near the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The Sand Creek Fire is located southeast of Wisdom, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire is burning between Wisdom and Wise River (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires? The cities and areas affected by the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires include: Clark Creek Elkhorn Hot Springs Grasshopper Valley Jerked Prairie Maverick Mountain Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway Shale Creek Wisdom Wise River What is the current containment status of the wildfires? As of August 21, 2026, the Sand Creek Fire has burned approximately 31,757 acres and is 7% contained, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire has burned approximately 9,910 acres and is 40% contained (2). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? A Level 3 “Go” evacuation order remains in effect for areas above the Clark Creek and Shale Creek area. Level 2 “Set” evacuation warnings remain in place for the Jerked Prairie. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of August 21, 2026, the Sand Creek Fire is 7% contained, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire is 40% contained.","

What are the names and locations of the wildfires?

As of August 21, 2026, the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires are burning in Beaverhead County, Montana, within and near the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

The Sand Creek Fire is located southeast of Wisdom, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire is burning between Wisdom and Wise River (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires?

The cities and areas affected by the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires include:

Clark Creek
Elkhorn Hot Springs
Grasshopper Valley
Jerked Prairie
Maverick Mountain
Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway
Shale Creek
Wisdom
Wise River

What is the current containment status of the wildfires?

As of August 21, 2026, the Sand Creek Fire has burned approximately 31,757 acres and is 7% contained, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire has burned approximately 9,910 acres and is 40% contained (2).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

A Level 3 “Go” evacuation order remains in effect for areas above the Clark Creek and Shale Creek area. Level 2 “Set” evacuation warnings remain in place for the Jerked Prairie.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of August 21, 2026, the Sand Creek Fire is 7% contained, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire is 40% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-sand-creek-and-bobcat-lakes-fires-montana","gid://shopify/Article/642110128206","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-sand-creek-and-bobcat-lakes-fires-montana","2026-08-21T10:52:02Z",[14,210,211],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes Fires, Montana",{"_66":267,"_80":252,"_82":268,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274741887054","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire17Desktop_d9b3aa12-5a26-498c-9360-65c3f7aceda7.jpg?v=1787309538",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Find out more about the major wildfires burning across Oregon, including current fire activity, affected communities, and evacuation information.","

Find out more about the major wildfires burning across Oregon, including current fire activity, affected communities, and evacuation information.

","What are the names and locations of the wildfires? As of August 21, 2026, multiple large wildfires are actively burning across North-Central and Eastern Oregon, prompting evacuation orders, threatening communities, and drawing a significant multi-agency firefighting response. The largest incidents are burning across Gilliam, Wheeler, Wasco, Crook, Jefferson, and Umatilla counties, while several additional fires remain active throughout the state. Oregon remains under heightened wildfire activity because of hot, dry weather, gusty winds, and dry vegetation. The Hay Creek Complex, formerly known as the Lower Rock Creek and Hoag Fires, burned in Gilliam County near Lower and Middle Rock Creek Roads, west of Highway 19 (1). The Rowe Creek Complex is burning southwest of Fossil in Wheeler County near Highway 218 and approximately one mile east of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument (2). The Akawa Butte Fire is burning across Deschutes and Jefferson counties in central Oregon near Akawa Butte and Henkle Butte (3). The Coyote Fire is burning in Crook County, Oregon, southeast of Prineville and near the communities of Post and Paulina (4). The Henry Fire is burning in Crook County, Oregon, approximately 2 miles south of Paulina (5). The Bench Fire is burning in Jefferson County, Oregon, near Warm Springs, the Deschutes River, Lake Billy Chinook, Pelton Dam, and Highway 26. The Bench and Beachcomb fires have merged and are now managed as the Bench Fire (6). The Shingle Fire is burning across Crook, Grant, and Wheeler counties in central Oregon. Fire activity has expanded toward Highway 26, Cottonwood Creek, Dayville, and surrounding ranchlands (7). The Grasshopper Fire is burning across Clackamas, Hood River, and Wasco Counties in north-central Oregon. The lightning-caused fire began on July 23 on the eastern side of the Mt. Hood National Forest and has burned through much of the Badger Creek Wilderness (8). In addition to these major incidents, numerous other notable fires are burning across Oregon, including the Austin Fire, Bologna Fire, Olive Butte, Burnt Creek, Hagen, and Powder River Fires. Numerous smaller wildfires are also active across the state as firefighters continue responding to rapidly changing fire conditions. Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Oregon wildfires include: Hay Creek Complex Gilliam County Sherman County Wasco County Rowe Creek Complex Condon Wasco County Wheeler County Brewer Reservoir Crook County Grizzly Mountain Jefferson County Madras Akawa Butte Fire Akawa Butte Deschutes County Henkle Butte Jefferson County Coyote Fire Paulina Post Prineville Southern Crook County Wiley Flat burn scar area Henry Fire Paulina Prineville Southern Crook County Bench Fire Dry Hollow Lake Simtustus Madras Pelton Dam Warm Springs Shingle Fire Dayville Paulina Prineville Antone Ranch Rattlesnake Creek Grasshopper Fire Dufur Government Camp Hood River Parkdale Pine Hollow Rhododendron The Dalles Wamic What is the current containment status of the wildfires? As of August 21, 2026, containment remains limited across many of Oregon's largest wildfires. Several fires continue to exhibit active fire behavior under dry weather conditions, while firefighters focus on protecting homes, strengthening containment lines, and limiting additional fire growth. The Hay Creek Complex has burned approximately 200,292 acres and is at 100% containment. The Rowe Creek Complex has burned 373,981 acres and remains at 89% containment. The Akawa Butte Fire has grown to approximately 27,491 acres. It is 99% contained. The Coyote Fire has burned approximately 17,459.3 acres and is 94% contained. The Henry Fire has burned approximately 29,888.5 acres and is 97% contained. The Bench Fire has burned approximately 67,079.5 acres and remains 90% contained. The Shingle Fire has burned approximately 73,183 acres and is 93% contained. The Grasshopper Fire has burned approximately 92,867.1 acres and is 71% contained. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect for multiple wildfire incidents across Oregon. Emergency management officials continue to update evacuation zones as fire conditions change, and residents are encouraged to monitor official alerts and leave immediately if directed to do so. Residents living near any active wildfire should remain prepared to evacuate immediately if conditions deteriorate and should continue monitoring local emergency management agencies for updated evacuation information. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of August 21, 2026, the Hay Creek Complex is 100% contained.The Rowe Creek Complex is 89% contained.The Akawa Butte Fire is 99% contained.The Coyote Fire is 94% contained.The Henry Fire is 97% contained.The Bench Fire is 90% contained.The Shingle Fire is 93% contained.The Grasshopper is 71% contained.","

What are the names and locations of the wildfires?

As of August 21, 2026, multiple large wildfires are actively burning across North-Central and Eastern Oregon, prompting evacuation orders, threatening communities, and drawing a significant multi-agency firefighting response.

The largest incidents are burning across Gilliam, Wheeler, Wasco, Crook, Jefferson, and Umatilla counties, while several additional fires remain active throughout the state. Oregon remains under heightened wildfire activity because of hot, dry weather, gusty winds, and dry vegetation.

The Hay Creek Complex, formerly known as the Lower Rock Creek and Hoag Fires, burned in Gilliam County near Lower and Middle Rock Creek Roads, west of Highway 19 (1).

The Rowe Creek Complex is burning southwest of Fossil in Wheeler County near Highway 218 and approximately one mile east of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument (2).

The Akawa Butte Fire is burning across Deschutes and Jefferson counties in central Oregon near Akawa Butte and Henkle Butte (3).

The Coyote Fire is burning in Crook County, Oregon, southeast of Prineville and near the communities of Post and Paulina (4).

The Henry Fire is burning in Crook County, Oregon, approximately 2 miles south of Paulina (5).

The Bench Fire is burning in Jefferson County, Oregon, near Warm Springs, the Deschutes River, Lake Billy Chinook, Pelton Dam, and Highway 26. The Bench and Beachcomb fires have merged and are now managed as the Bench Fire (6).

The Shingle Fire is burning across Crook, Grant, and Wheeler counties in central Oregon. Fire activity has expanded toward Highway 26, Cottonwood Creek, Dayville, and surrounding ranchlands (7).

The Grasshopper Fire is burning across Clackamas, Hood River, and Wasco Counties in north-central Oregon. The lightning-caused fire began on July 23 on the eastern side of the Mt. Hood National Forest and has burned through much of the Badger Creek Wilderness (8).

In addition to these major incidents, numerous other notable fires are burning across Oregon, including the Austin Fire, Bologna Fire, Olive Butte, Burnt Creek, Hagen, and Powder River Fires. Numerous smaller wildfires are also active across the state as firefighters continue responding to rapidly changing fire conditions.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Oregon wildfires include:

Hay Creek Complex

Gilliam County
Sherman County
Wasco County

Rowe Creek Complex

\nCondon
\n
Wasco County
Wheeler County
Brewer Reservoir
Crook County
Grizzly Mountain
\nJefferson County
\n
Madras

Akawa Butte Fire

Akawa Butte
\nDeschutes County
\n
Henkle Butte
Jefferson County

Coyote Fire

Paulina
Post
Prineville
Southern Crook County
Wiley Flat burn scar area

Henry Fire

Paulina
Prineville
Southern Crook County

Bench Fire

Dry Hollow
Lake Simtustus
\nMadras
\n
Pelton Dam
\nWarm Springs
\n

Shingle Fire

\nDayville
\n
Paulina
Prineville
Antone Ranch
Rattlesnake Creek

Grasshopper Fire

Dufur
Government Camp
Hood River
Parkdale
Pine Hollow
\nRhododendron
\n
\nThe Dalles
\n
Wamic

What is the current containment status of the wildfires?

As of August 21, 2026, containment remains limited across many of Oregon's largest wildfires. Several fires continue to exhibit active fire behavior under dry weather conditions, while firefighters focus on protecting homes, strengthening containment lines, and limiting additional fire growth.

The Hay Creek Complex has burned approximately 200,292 acres and is at 100% containment.

The Rowe Creek Complex has burned 373,981 acres and remains at 89% containment.

The Akawa Butte Fire has grown to approximately 27,491 acres. It is 99% contained.

The Coyote Fire has burned approximately 17,459.3 acres and is 94% contained.

The Henry Fire has burned approximately 29,888.5 acres and is 97% contained.

The Bench Fire has burned approximately 67,079.5 acres and remains 90% contained.

The Shingle Fire has burned approximately 73,183 acres and is 93% contained.

The Grasshopper Fire has burned approximately 92,867.1 acres and is 71% contained.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect for multiple wildfire incidents across Oregon. Emergency management officials continue to update evacuation zones as fire conditions change, and residents are encouraged to monitor official alerts and leave immediately if directed to do so.

Residents living near any active wildfire should remain prepared to evacuate immediately if conditions deteriorate and should continue monitoring local emergency management agencies for updated evacuation information.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
\nContribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
\n
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
\n

As of August 21, 2026, the Hay Creek Complex is 100% contained.
The Rowe Creek Complex is 89% contained.
The Akawa Butte Fire is 99% contained.
The Coyote Fire is 94% contained.
The Henry Fire is 97% contained.
The Bench Fire is 90% contained.
The Shingle Fire is 93% contained.
The Grasshopper is 71% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-north-central-oregon-wildfires","gid://shopify/Article/641901199438","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-north-central-oregon-wildfires","2026-08-21T11:04:02Z",[14,210,211],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: North-Central and Eastern Oregon Wildfires",{"_66":282,"_80":-5,"_82":283,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274742181966","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire13Desktop_5488538a-68af-4999-9429-fd70d34b1346.jpg?v=1787313108",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Find out more about the major wildfires affecting communities across Washington.","

Find out more about the major wildfires affecting communities across Washington.

","What are the names and locations of the wildfires? As of August 21, 2026, multiple active wildfires are burning across Washington, prompting evacuations and affecting communities across the state. The Ptarmigan Fire is burning in Okanogan County, Washington. The fire is active in the Pasayten Wilderness near the Pasayten Airstrip and the Middle Fork Pasayten River drainage, north of the Methow Valley (1). The Sinlahekin Fire is burning northwest of Sinlahekin Campground near Tonasket in Okanogan County. The fire has spread toward Palmer Mountain, Rattlesnake Peak, South Pine Creek, and areas west of the Okanogan River (2). The Little Giant Fire is burning across Chelan and Okanogan counties. It extends through remote terrain around the Entiat River, Chiwawa River, Glacier Peak Wilderness, and Lake Chelan (3). The Modrite Fire is burning across Ferry and Stevens counties near Inchelium. The fire remains west of Lake Roosevelt and south of Bridge Creek Road (4). The Autumn Lane Fire burned across Spokane and Stevens counties. Affected areas included Suncrest, Swenson Road, Barney Coker Canyon, and Indian Painted Rocks (5). The Old Trails Fire burned in Spokane County. The fire affected areas around Nine Mile Road, West Francis Avenue, Five Mile, and neighborhoods northwest of Spokane (6). The Fairview Fire burned near Mead in Spokane County. It began near North Fairview Road and East Piper Road and burned through brush and grass, threatening nearby homes, power lines, and timber (7). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires? The cities and areas affected by the Washington wildfires include: Ptarmigan Fire Harts Pass Methow Valley Middle Fork Pasayten River drainage Pasayten Airstrip Pasayten Wilderness Sinlahekin Fire Aeneas Mountain Loomis area Oroville area Palmer Mountain Pine Creek area Rattlesnake Peak Tonasket Little Giant Fire Chiwawa River area Entiat River corridor Glacier Peak Wilderness Lake Chelan south shore Manson side of Lake Chelan Modrite Fire Bridge Creek Road area Inchelium Kewa-Meteor Road area Seylor Valley Stranger Creek area Western Lake Roosevelt area Autumn Lane Fire Barney Coker Canyon Indian Painted Rocks North Dorset Road area North Riverbluff Lane area Suncrest Swenson Road area Old Trails Fire Five Mile area Nine Mile Road area Northwestern Spokane West Euclid Avenue area West Francis Avenue area West Strong Road area Fairview Fire Mead Mount Spokane Park Drive area Orchard Road area Peone Road area Pleasant Prairie area What is the current containment status of the wildfires? As of August 21, 2026, the Ptarmigan Fire has burned 24,720.6 acres and is 55% contained. The Sinlahekin Fire has burned 154,298 acres and is 47% contained. The Little Giant Fire has burned approximately 139,486.7 acres and is 12% contained. The Modrite Fire has burned 57,595 acres and is 98% contained. The Autumn Lane Fire has burned 5,764 acres and is 100% contained. The Old Trails Fire has burned 3,175.9 acres and is 100% contained. The Fairview Fire has burned 992.5 acres and is 100% contained. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Evacuation orders and warnings are in effect around most of the wildfires, particularly near Lake Chelan, Tonasket, Inchelium, Mead, and the Spokane area. Ptarmigan Fire: Harts Pass Road and the Pacific Crest Trail near the Pasayten Wilderness remain partially closed. Sinlahekin Fire: Level 3 evacuation orders cover areas west of the Okanogan River north toward Oroville. Level 2 evacuation warnings are in effect in Tonasket and nearby areas. Little Giant Fire: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 notices cover parts of the Lake Chelan south shore and the Manson side of the lake. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of August 21, 2026, The Ptarmigan Fire is 55% contained.The Sinlahekin Fire is 47% contained.The Little Giant Fire is 12% contained.The Modrite Fire is 98% contained.The Autumn Lane Fire is 100% contained.The Old Trails Fire is 100% contained.The Fairview Fire is 100% contained.","

What are the names and locations of the wildfires?

As of August 21, 2026, multiple active wildfires are burning across Washington, prompting evacuations and affecting communities across the state.

The Ptarmigan Fire is burning in Okanogan County, Washington. The fire is active in the Pasayten Wilderness near the Pasayten Airstrip and the Middle Fork Pasayten River drainage, north of the Methow Valley (1).

The Sinlahekin Fire is burning northwest of Sinlahekin Campground near Tonasket in Okanogan County. The fire has spread toward Palmer Mountain, Rattlesnake Peak, South Pine Creek, and areas west of the Okanogan River (2).

The Little Giant Fire is burning across Chelan and Okanogan counties. It extends through remote terrain around the Entiat River, Chiwawa River, Glacier Peak Wilderness, and Lake Chelan (3).

The Modrite Fire is burning across Ferry and Stevens counties near Inchelium. The fire remains west of Lake Roosevelt and south of Bridge Creek Road (4).

The Autumn Lane Fire burned across Spokane and Stevens counties. Affected areas included Suncrest, Swenson Road, Barney Coker Canyon, and Indian Painted Rocks (5).

The Old Trails Fire burned in Spokane County. The fire affected areas around Nine Mile Road, West Francis Avenue, Five Mile, and neighborhoods northwest of Spokane (6).

The Fairview Fire burned near Mead in Spokane County. It began near North Fairview Road and East Piper Road and burned through brush and grass, threatening nearby homes, power lines, and timber (7).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires?

The cities and areas affected by the Washington wildfires include:

Ptarmigan Fire

Harts Pass
Methow Valley
Middle Fork Pasayten River drainage
Pasayten Airstrip
Pasayten Wilderness

Sinlahekin Fire

Aeneas Mountain
Loomis area
Oroville area
Palmer Mountain
Pine Creek area
Rattlesnake Peak
\nTonasket
\n

Little Giant Fire

Chiwawa River area
Entiat River corridor
Glacier Peak Wilderness
Lake Chelan south shore
\nManson side of Lake Chelan

Modrite Fire

Bridge Creek Road area
\nInchelium
\n
Kewa-Meteor Road area
Seylor Valley
Stranger Creek area
Western Lake Roosevelt area

Autumn Lane Fire

Barney Coker Canyon
Indian Painted Rocks
North Dorset Road area
North Riverbluff Lane area
\nSuncrest
\n
Swenson Road area

Old Trails Fire

Five Mile area
Nine Mile Road area
Northwestern Spokane
\n
West Euclid Avenue area
West Francis Avenue area
West Strong Road area

Fairview Fire

\nMead
\n
Mount Spokane Park Drive area
Orchard Road area
Peone Road area
Pleasant Prairie area

What is the current containment status of the wildfires?

As of August 21, 2026, the Ptarmigan Fire has burned 24,720.6 acres and is 55% contained.

The Sinlahekin Fire has burned 154,298 acres and is 47% contained.

The Little Giant Fire has burned approximately 139,486.7 acres and is 12% contained.

The Modrite Fire has burned 57,595 acres and is 98% contained.

The Autumn Lane Fire has burned 5,764 acres and is 100% contained.

The Old Trails Fire has burned 3,175.9 acres and is 100% contained.

The Fairview Fire has burned 992.5 acres and is 100% contained.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders and warnings are in effect around most of the wildfires, particularly near Lake Chelan, Tonasket, Inchelium, Mead, and the Spokane area.

Ptarmigan Fire: Harts Pass Road and the Pacific Crest Trail near the Pasayten Wilderness remain partially closed.
Sinlahekin Fire: Level 3 evacuation orders cover areas west of the Okanogan River north toward Oroville. Level 2 evacuation warnings are in effect in Tonasket and nearby areas.
Little Giant Fire: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 notices cover parts of the Lake Chelan south shore and the Manson side of the lake.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
\nContribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
\n
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
\n

As of August 21, 2026, The Ptarmigan Fire is 55% contained.
The Sinlahekin Fire is 47% contained.
The Little Giant Fire is 12% contained.
The Modrite Fire is 98% contained.
The Autumn Lane Fire is 100% contained.
The Old Trails Fire is 100% contained.
The Fairview Fire is 100% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-washington-wildfires","gid://shopify/Article/642000420942","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-washington-wildfires","2026-08-21T11:12:19Z",[14,210,211],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Washington Wildfires",{"_66":297,"_80":-5,"_82":298,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274742214734","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire8Desktop_fbffeb7b-321d-42b6-aa57-632966de01d8.jpg?v=1787313108",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Central Chile is experiencing elevated air pollution levels. Learn more about affected cities, underlying causes, and the expected outlook.","

Central Chile is experiencing elevated air pollution levels. Learn more about affected cities, underlying causes, and the expected outlook.

","Is the air quality good in Chile? As of August 22, 2026, air quality in central Chile remains poor, with major cities experiencing \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" levels and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 2:30 AM (Chile Standard Time, GMT-4), some urban centers recorded AQI readings ranging from 100 to 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit prolonged outdoor activity, wear masks outdoors, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions fluctuate throughout the day, central Chile regularly experiences seasonal pollution episodes during the colder months. Studies conducted in Santiago and Temuco have confirmed that for every 50 µg/m³ increase in PM10 levels in 24 hours, there is an average increase of about 3% in general mortality, with increases in PM10 also associated with higher respiratory and cardiovascular mortality (1). Air quality map of central Chile at 2:30 AM (local time) on August 22, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Chile? As of August 22, 2026, several cities in central Chile are experiencing degraded air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Coyhaique Loncoche Osorno Rancagua Santiago Talca Talcahuano For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels across the region, see Chile's air quality map. When will the air quality improve in Chile? Research shows PM2.5 increases from April through July, then begins to decrease in September and October as spring arrives and atmospheric conditions become more favorable for pollutant dispersal. Mean PM2.5 levels during the cold season from April through September are more than twice as high as those in the warm season from October through March. In the near term, isolated rainfall or stronger winds may offer brief relief (2). Lasting improvement depends on consistent enforcement of restrictions on wood burning and vehicle emissions during pollution alert episodes. What is causing poor air quality in Chile? Firewood produces as much as 94% of fine particulate matter emissions in some Chilean cities according to the Ministry of Environment, with two million homes heated using solid biofuels nationwide, and the firewood market generating an estimated 800 million dollars annually (3). Firewood smoke from residential heating is responsible for more than 90% of PM2.5 emissions in cities located between the O'Higgins and Aysén regions, where indiscriminate use of firewood for heating is the primary driver of seasonal air quality crises (4). In Santiago, the situation is compounded by the city's position between the Andes and the Cordillera de la Costa, which creates a pocket where stagnant air accumulates and disperses slowly, while vehicle exhaust, fossil fuel power generation, and construction dust add a persistent pollution base throughout the year. How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Chile?

As of August 22, 2026, air quality in central Chile remains poor, with major cities experiencing \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" levels and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 2:30 AM (Chile Standard Time, GMT-4), some urban centers recorded AQI readings ranging from 100 to 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit prolonged outdoor activity, wear masks outdoors, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions fluctuate throughout the day, central Chile regularly experiences seasonal pollution episodes during the colder months. Studies conducted in Santiago and Temuco have confirmed that for every 50 µg/m³ increase in PM10 levels in 24 hours, there is an average increase of about 3% in general mortality, with increases in PM10 also associated with higher respiratory and cardiovascular mortality (1).

$\"\"$ Air quality map of central Chile at 2:30 AM (local time) on August 22, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Chile?

As of August 22, 2026, several cities in central Chile are experiencing degraded air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels across the region, see Chile's air quality map.

When will the air quality improve in Chile?

Research shows PM2.5 increases from April through July, then begins to decrease in September and October as spring arrives and atmospheric conditions become more favorable for pollutant dispersal.

Mean PM2.5 levels during the cold season from April through September are more than twice as high as those in the warm season from October through March. In the near term, isolated rainfall or stronger winds may offer brief relief (2).

Lasting improvement depends on consistent enforcement of restrictions on wood burning and vehicle emissions during pollution alert episodes.

What is causing poor air quality in Chile?

Firewood produces as much as 94% of fine particulate matter emissions in some Chilean cities according to the Ministry of Environment, with two million homes heated using solid biofuels nationwide, and the firewood market generating an estimated 800 million dollars annually (3).

Firewood smoke from residential heating is responsible for more than 90% of PM2.5 emissions in cities located between the O'Higgins and Aysén regions, where indiscriminate use of firewood for heating is the primary driver of seasonal air quality crises (4).

In Santiago, the situation is compounded by the city's position between the Andes and the Cordillera de la Costa, which creates a pocket where stagnant air accumulates and disperses slowly, while vehicle exhaust, fossil fuel power generation, and construction dust add a persistent pollution base throughout the year.

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","chile-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/641694269518","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/chile-air-quality-alert","2026-08-22T07:02:21Z",[14,210],"Chile Air Quality Alert",{"_66":312,"_80":-5,"_82":313,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274751225934","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Chile_SmokySky_Desk_a2a486ab-0007-4727-bfd9-dbf7fc78a8ea.jpg?v=1787382158",{"_51":52,"_53":332,"_11":333,"_56":334,"_58":335,"_60":336,"_62":337,"_64":338,"_66":339,"_68":340,"_70":-5,"_71":341,"_73":342,"_75":343,"_77":344},{"_51":52,"_53":316,"_11":317,"_56":318,"_58":319,"_60":320,"_62":321,"_64":322,"_66":323,"_68":324,"_70":-5,"_71":325,"_73":326,"_75":327,"_77":328},{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Air changes per hour – why should this matter to you? Read and find out before you invest in an air purifier.","

Air changes per hour – why should this matter to you? Read and find out before you invest in an air purifier.

","Air changes per hour (ACH) is a ventilation metric that measures how frequently indoor air is replaced and filtered within a 60-minute time period. When choosing an air purifier, ACH values can play an important role in determining air cleaning efficiency and filtration power. Understanding ACH values, metric calculations, and associated symptom relief is key to guarantee maximum air quality protection and fast filtration efficiency within indoor spaces. What does ACH mean? Air changes per hour is a metric system utilized to measure how often indoor air particles are cleaned and filtered within one hour in a controlled indoor space, meaning an ACH value of 2 equals to air particles being replaced 2 times in an hour. ACH values commonly range on a scale of 1-6; however, exceptional air quality filtering and ventilation can produce higher ACH levels (1). For air purifiers, the higher the ACH calculated value, the higher the indication that air particles within a room have been replaced through filter circulation. Low ACH values could determine stagnant air or a lack of proper ventilation in an enclosed space. Therefore, by calculating ACH levels for air purifiers or air cleaning systems, families and homeowners can gain a better understanding of the air filtration efficiency surrounding them. How do you measure ACH? Air changes per hour is calculated through a simple equation combining system airflow in cubic feet per minute (CFM) with timespan divided by the room dimensions. Check product packaging to see manufacturer labeled ACH values or calculate at home through personal measurements. To measure air changes per hour, utilize the equation: Measuring ACH levels not only allows for an in-depth understanding of the surrounding ventilation and filtration efficiency in a space, but also ensures health symptoms are alleviated and clean air quality is maintained through quantitative data. Most manufacturers provide ACH only for the highest speed setting. Therefore, it’s important to understand ACH, so that you are aware how to determine ACH on the speed setting that you will use the air purifier. You will need the CFM for each speed setting to determine this. It’s important to have at least two air changes per hour to make an acceptable difference in air quality in a room or space. What does ACH help with? Air changes per hour measures differences in air quality and pertain associated benefits with higher ACH values that help alleviate health conditions and symptoms. According to a recent study, higher ACH levels have been found to be associated with respiratory symptom relief, reduced allergies, and healthier breathing by eliminating infectious aerosols (2). Rooms with high activity may require higher ACH levels to properly address elevated airborne pollutant activity. Contrastingly, large rooms with low activity or occupancy may not require high ACH levels to sufficiently provide clean air ventilation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an ACH level of 7 or higher for the “best” ventilation efficiency, labeling an ACH value of 4 as “good” and a 6 as “better” (3). Why does ACH matter when choosing an air purifier? Air changes per hour is an important measurement tool and scale for determining air filtration efficiency, ensuring proper circulation and ventilation is actively cleaning the air. Selecting an air purifier with a high ACH value ensures maximum filtration efficiency while improving health conditions and symptoms. By utilizing ACH values to choose clean air systems, efficient ventilation and filtration power can be guaranteed for indoor spaces. Individuals with asthma, eczema, and respiratory difficulties also experienced an improvement of symptoms through ACH measurements and stability. Elevated ACH levels can substantially reduce the time to remove airborne pollutants, creating a high-filtration-efficiency environment and limiting exposure to harmful particles. Check for “Shortcutting” in air purifier design In air purification, \"shortcutting\" is an airflow design flaw where an air cleaner's intake and exhaust are too close, causing freshly filtered air to re-enter the machine immediately instead of circulating through the room. IQAir systems prevents shortcutting by placing intakes and outputs at opposite ends with its Swiss Design and manufacturing. Understanding Shortcutting: The Problem: Poorly designed purifiers pull clean air right back in, wasting energy and reducing effective room cleaning. The IQAir Design: Units like the HealthPro series separate intake (bottom) and outflow (top/opposite ends) to force complete room air mixing. Result: Maximizes air changes per hour (ACH) without recycling already-purified air. How to increase ACH levels Air changes per hour values are not set in stone and are influenced by the actual speed setting being used and if the air purifier is designed to prevent shortcutting. High ACH levels have been linked to allergen symptom relief, the dilution of indoor airborne pollutants, and reduced exposure to harmful particles. ACH levels can be elevated within indoor spaces through additional air cleaning technology and daily ventilation practices, such as: Air cleaning technology: Utilize multiple HyperHEPA air purifiers in high activity spaces, rely on HVAC filtration to increase airflow, and install an air quality monitor to know when outdoor ventilation is safe Daily practices: Open windows during periods of low outdoor activity, employ fans to increase air circulation throughout rooms, and routinely clean surfaces to limit airborne pollutants Employing additional air quality metrics could help further contextualize the filtration and ventilation efficiency within indoor air, such as CADR and CCM. The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) measures how fast an air purifier can produce clean air, while Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM) determines how much pollutants an air purifier can capture before losing efficiency. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is ACH important?Yes, air changes per hour (ACH) is an important metric system for determining clean air ventilation and filtration efficiency. ACH measures how often an air cleaning system can clean and replace the air particles in a room. Specific ACH values detail how efficiently and effectively an air purifier system functions within the hour timeframe. By quantifying performance results, the air purifier selection process is simplified and ensures the most optimal decision can be made. Where can I find my ACH level?Check the air cleaning device’s product packaging for a listed ACH value or ranking. If no ACH value is listed, utilize the ACH equation to calculate at home and determine a device’s ventilation efficiency. What does ACH stand for?ACH is an acronym for air changes per hour, meaning this metric measures how many times air particles can be replaced within an hour in an indoor space. How do CCM and CADR relate to ACH?Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM), Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), and Air Changes per Hour (ACH) are all metrics measuring specific aspects of clean air quality, such as ventilation, filtration, and healthy particle production. These metrics help quantify air purifier capabilities to find the best air cleaning results through proven data collection. Employ CCM, CADR, and ACH calculations to ensure maximum pollutant protection and filtration efficiency is achieved between every air cleaning device. Conclusion Air changes per hour (ACH) is an essential metric tool that allows us to understand ventilation efficiency, symptom relief, and clean air filtration through quantitative, tangible data values and levels. Without understanding ACH, health risks and invisible pollutants may unknowingly prevail within indoor spaces. Employ clean air technology and filtration practices to achieve high ACH levels for maximum ventilation efficiency and harmful pollutant reduction.","

Air changes per hour (ACH) is a ventilation metric that measures how frequently indoor air is replaced and filtered within a 60-minute time period. When choosing an air purifier, ACH values can play an important role in determining air cleaning efficiency and filtration power.

Understanding ACH values, metric calculations, and associated symptom relief is key to guarantee maximum air quality protection and fast filtration efficiency within indoor spaces.

What does ACH mean?

Air changes per hour is a metric system utilized to measure how often indoor air particles are cleaned and filtered within one hour in a controlled indoor space, meaning an ACH value of 2 equals to air particles being replaced 2 times in an hour. ACH values commonly range on a scale of 1-6; however, exceptional air quality filtering and ventilation can produce higher ACH levels (1).

For air purifiers, the higher the ACH calculated value, the higher the indication that air particles within a room have been replaced through filter circulation. Low ACH values could determine stagnant air or a lack of proper ventilation in an enclosed space.

Therefore, by calculating ACH levels for air purifiers or air cleaning systems, families and homeowners can gain a better understanding of the air filtration efficiency surrounding them.

How do you measure ACH?

Air changes per hour is calculated through a simple equation combining system airflow in cubic feet per minute (CFM) with timespan divided by the room dimensions. Check product packaging to see manufacturer labeled ACH values or calculate at home through personal measurements. To measure air changes per hour, utilize the equation:
$\"\"$

Measuring ACH levels not only allows for an in-depth understanding of the surrounding ventilation and filtration efficiency in a space, but also ensures health symptoms are alleviated and clean air quality is maintained through quantitative data.

Most manufacturers provide ACH only for the highest speed setting. Therefore, it’s important to understand ACH, so that you are aware how to determine ACH on the speed setting that you will use the air purifier. You will need the CFM for each speed setting to determine this. It’s important to have at least two air changes per hour to make an acceptable difference in air quality in a room or space.

What does ACH help with?

Air changes per hour measures differences in air quality and pertain associated benefits with higher ACH values that help alleviate health conditions and symptoms.

According to a recent study, higher ACH levels have been found to be associated with respiratory symptom relief, reduced allergies, and healthier breathing by eliminating infectious aerosols (2). Rooms with high activity may require higher ACH levels to properly address elevated airborne pollutant activity. Contrastingly, large rooms with low activity or occupancy may not require high ACH levels to sufficiently provide clean air ventilation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an ACH level of 7 or higher for the “best” ventilation efficiency, labeling an ACH value of 4 as “good” and a 6 as “better” (3).

Why does ACH matter when choosing an air purifier?

Air changes per hour is an important measurement tool and scale for determining air filtration efficiency, ensuring proper circulation and ventilation is actively cleaning the air. Selecting an air purifier with a high ACH value ensures maximum filtration efficiency while improving health conditions and symptoms. By utilizing ACH values to choose clean air systems, efficient ventilation and filtration power can be guaranteed for indoor spaces.

Individuals with asthma, eczema, and respiratory difficulties also experienced an improvement of symptoms through ACH measurements and stability. Elevated ACH levels can substantially reduce the time to remove airborne pollutants, creating a high-filtration-efficiency environment and limiting exposure to harmful particles.

Check for “Shortcutting” in air purifier design

In air purification, \"shortcutting\" is an airflow design flaw where an air cleaner's intake and exhaust are too close, causing freshly filtered air to re-enter the machine immediately instead of circulating through the room.

IQAir systems prevents shortcutting by placing intakes and outputs at opposite ends with its Swiss Design and manufacturing.

Understanding Shortcutting:

The Problem: Poorly designed purifiers pull clean air right back in, wasting energy and reducing effective room cleaning.
The IQAir Design: Units like the HealthPro series separate intake (bottom) and outflow (top/opposite ends) to force complete room air mixing.
Result: Maximizes air changes per hour (ACH) without recycling already-purified air.

How to increase ACH levels

Air changes per hour values are not set in stone and are influenced by the actual speed setting being used and if the air purifier is designed to prevent shortcutting. High ACH levels have been linked to allergen symptom relief, the dilution of indoor airborne pollutants, and reduced exposure to harmful particles. ACH levels can be elevated within indoor spaces through additional air cleaning technology and daily ventilation practices, such as:

Air cleaning technology: Utilize multiple HyperHEPA air purifiers in high activity spaces, rely on HVAC filtration to increase airflow, and install an air quality monitor to know when outdoor ventilation is safe
Daily practices: Open windows during periods of low outdoor activity, employ fans to increase air circulation throughout rooms, and routinely clean surfaces to limit airborne pollutants

Employing additional air quality metrics could help further contextualize the filtration and ventilation efficiency within indoor air, such as CADR and CCM. The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) measures how fast an air purifier can produce clean air, while Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM) determines how much pollutants an air purifier can capture before losing efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is ACH important?
Yes, air changes per hour (ACH) is an important metric system for determining clean air ventilation and filtration efficiency. ACH measures how often an air cleaning system can clean and replace the air particles in a room. Specific ACH values detail how efficiently and effectively an air purifier system functions within the hour timeframe.

By quantifying performance results, the air purifier selection process is simplified and ensures the most optimal decision can be made.

Where can I find my ACH level?
Check the air cleaning device’s product packaging for a listed ACH value or ranking. If no ACH value is listed, utilize the ACH equation to calculate at home and determine a device’s ventilation efficiency.

What does ACH stand for?
ACH is an acronym for air changes per hour, meaning this metric measures how many times air particles can be replaced within an hour in an indoor space.

How do CCM and CADR relate to ACH?
Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM), Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), and Air Changes per Hour (ACH) are all metrics measuring specific aspects of clean air quality, such as ventilation, filtration, and healthy particle production. These metrics help quantify air purifier capabilities to find the best air cleaning results through proven data collection.

Employ CCM, CADR, and ACH calculations to ensure maximum pollutant protection and filtration efficiency is achieved between every air cleaning device.

Conclusion

Air changes per hour (ACH) is an essential metric tool that allows us to understand ventilation efficiency, symptom relief, and clean air filtration through quantitative, tangible data values and levels. Without understanding ACH, health risks and invisible pollutants may unknowingly prevail within indoor spaces.

Employ clean air technology and filtration practices to achieve high ACH levels for maximum ventilation efficiency and harmful pollutant reduction.

","what-is-ach-and-why-it-matters-for-air-purifiers","gid://shopify/Article/642080964686","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/what-is-ach-and-why-it-matters-for-air-purifiers","2026-08-13T16:08:11Z",[194,331],"What is ACH and why it matters for air purifiers",{"_66":329,"_80":-5,"_82":330,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274634014798","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/A_e3d14acb-d21f-41ce-8ce7-6d1a85987c83.jpg?v=1786638563","Featured articles",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Cooking smoke and kitchen odors carry harmful airborne pollutants that elevate health risks. Learn what types of particles are in kitchen pollutants and how air purifiers can remove them.","

Cooking smoke and kitchen odors carry harmful airborne pollutants that elevate health risks. Learn what types of particles are in kitchen pollutants and how air purifiers can remove them.

","Yes, air purifiers can remove both cooking smoke and kitchen odors, but not all air filtration systems can withstand both types of indoor pollutants. If kitchens are left untreated, cooking smoke and odors can cause long-term health risks, spreading to other parts of a home. And while formaldehyde remains the most common VOC found in homes (it’s source is mainly new furniture, building materials and combustion), cooking is the leading source of indoor air pollution, with the main pollutants being PM2.5 and NO2. Understanding the pollutants kitchen emissions carry, associated health risks, and effective filtration methods ensures clean air is maintained while dinner is served. What causes cooking smoke? Cooking smoke is a combination of various pollutants and chemical emissions released when preparing food, often derived from heated appliances, such as stoves and toasters. Without proper ventilation or air filtration, cooking smoke spreads throughout indoor spaces, sticking to common surfaces, such as walls and cabinet doors. Over time, these particles can continue to build up and compromise respiratory health. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 3 people worldwide use harmful cooking methods that put health at risk (1). Carrying multiple different chemicals and particles, cooking smoke can lead to harmful indoor air quality conditions. What is in cooking smoke? Cooking smoke is comprised of multiple different layers of pollutants that carry their own harmful effects, such as fine particulate matter, gaseous emissions, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Cooking smoke produces PM2.5 and PM10 pollutants, particles measuring 2.5 microns or less and up to 10 microns, respectively. Between the gaseous chemicals released and ultrafine pollutants produced, specific particles include: Nitrogen Oxide Carbon Monoxide Formaldehyde Soot Smoke Benzene Long-term exposure to these particles can cause elevated health risks for lung cancer, respiratory complications, nasal irritation, and heart disease. Short-term symptoms can range from dizziness and confusion to chest pain and weakness. Alongside smoke exposure health risks, kitchen odors and smells can cause their own harmful effects as well. Most common causes of kitchen odor Kitchen odors are gaseous chemical emissions derived from various household sources, such as cleaning sprays, scented products, and open gas stove flames. Chemical pollutants are often mixed within scented or aerosol kitchen products that become airborne when sprayed and possibly ingested when eating. Kitchen odors can manifest through hidden sources as well, such as rotten food and sink drains, which produce mold spores that can persist. Kitchen odors and mold spores linger if left untreated, manifesting on common surfaces such as fabrics, furniture, and walls. Extreme cases of mold exposure can lead to elevated health risks and respiratory symptoms. Various kitchen practices could also increase the likelihood of harmful cooking smoke and odor particles as well. What contributes to cooking smoke and kitchen odor? Some households may produce more abundant cooking smoke and kitchen odor particles based on cooking practices and appliances utilized. For instance, gas stoves create harmful gaseous emissions and smoke that can become airborne or get exposed to food. A study published in 2023 found gas stoves to be accountable for 13% of childhood asthma cases (2). Aside from appliance emissions, cooking practices can also elevate pollutant particle levels. Overcooking food, burning fats and oils, stir-frying, and deep-frying can create abundant gaseous emissions and smoke (3). Unkept kitchens or spaces with a lack of ventilation may also encounter stronger kitchen odors. To combat abundant cooking smoke and kitchen odor particles—cooking methods, open ventilation, and multi-layer air filtration are key in minimizing pollutants. Clean air methods for kitchens and cooking spaces Eliminating both kitchen odors and cooking smoke is not easy, requiring multilayer air quality interventions alongside routine rituals and cleaning. Several interventions can help improve the air quality in the kitchen: Using an electric stove instead of a gas stove, as gas stoves produce significantly more air pollution than electric stovetops. Installing a high quality exhaust range hood. Exhaust hoods actually expel air out of the house, while most range hoods recirculate air throughout the house. It is best to upgrade your range hood to an exhaust hood. Open windows when there is active cooking and utilize kitchen exhaust fans to ventilate out smoke. Utilizing an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology and activated carbon is key—HyperHEPA filtration captures ultrafine particulate matter like cooking smoke, while activated carbon filters remove gaseous odor particles. Daily practices and awareness can help ensure kitchen pollutants are kept at a minimum, including: Cooking Methods: Avoid burning food and oils. Kitchen Maintenance: Routinely clean surfaces, install a multifilter air purifier, and utilize chemical-free and scent-free cleaning products. Appliance Awareness: Ensure appliances are turned off when not in use and install air quality monitors next to stovetops. Through mindful cooking methods and powerful multilayer filtration, comprehensively clean air in kitchens is achievable. Conclusion Source control such as upgrading to electric stovetops and high-quality exhaust range hoods can help reduce the amount of air pollution from cooking smoke and kitchen odors. Air purifiers can effectively remove kitchen odors and cooking smoke if the system utilizes multilayer HyperHEPA filtration and activated carbon. By employing multilayer air filtration, maximum pollutant protection is provided and all various types of airborne particles are captured. To ensure kitchen odors and smoke are eliminated at the source—clean cooking practices and electric stovetops can reduce pollutant exposure before it begins, keeping food and air quality safe. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Are kitchen odors and cooking smoke harmful?Yes, if left untreated, kitchen odors and cooking smoke can linger indoors, sticking to common surfaces such as furniture, fabrics, and walls. Long-term exposure with these pollutants can lead to elevated health risks and respiratory complications, especially for sensitive groups, such as children and the elderly. How do I get rid of kitchen odors and cooking smoke?To eliminate both kitchen odors and cooking smoke, it is important to utilize an air purifier with multilayer activated carbon and HyperHEPA filtration. Activated carbon filters eliminate gaseous odor particles while HyperHEPA filtration removes ultrafine particulate matter, providing comprehensively clean air quality. Alongside air filtration, daily practices and clean cooking methods are key to limiting pollutant particles. Electric stoves, routine cleaning, and consistent ventilation can help minimize and protect against kitchen pollutants. What causes kitchen odors and cooking smoke?Kitchen odors and cooking smoke can be caused by and further elevated through several different variables. For cooking smoke, gas stoves are found to produce heightened levels of gaseous pollutants and smoke compared to electric burners. Food preparation methods such as overcooking or deep-frying ingredients can lead to an abundance of cooking smoke as well. For kitchen odors, lack of filtration and unclean spaces can elevate risks for mold production and lingering pollutants. To defend against kitchen odors, it is key to utilize chemical-free sanitization products and open windows during cooking hours to maximize ventilation. What is the difference between kitchen odors and cooking smoke?The main differences between kitchen odors and cooking smoke are the types of particles they release and origin sources. Cooking smoke is a combination of gaseous emissions, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ultrafine particulate matter that is released during heated food preparation. On the other hand, kitchen odors do not necessarily depend on heat, releasing gaseous and chemical emissions through household cleaning products, sink drains, and molded food.","

Yes, air purifiers can remove both cooking smoke and kitchen odors, but not all air filtration systems can withstand both types of indoor pollutants. If kitchens are left untreated, cooking smoke and odors can cause long-term health risks, spreading to other parts of a home.

And while formaldehyde remains the most common VOC found in homes (it’s source is mainly new furniture, building materials and combustion), cooking is the leading source of indoor air pollution, with the main pollutants being PM2.5 and NO2. Understanding the pollutants kitchen emissions carry, associated health risks, and effective filtration methods ensures clean air is maintained while dinner is served.

What causes cooking smoke?

Cooking smoke is a combination of various pollutants and chemical emissions released when preparing food, often derived from heated appliances, such as stoves and toasters. Without proper ventilation or air filtration, cooking smoke spreads throughout indoor spaces, sticking to common surfaces, such as walls and cabinet doors. Over time, these particles can continue to build up and compromise respiratory health.

According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 3 people worldwide use harmful cooking methods that put health at risk (1). Carrying multiple different chemicals and particles, cooking smoke can lead to harmful indoor air quality conditions.

What is in cooking smoke?

Cooking smoke is comprised of multiple different layers of pollutants that carry their own harmful effects, such as fine particulate matter, gaseous emissions, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Cooking smoke produces PM2.5 and PM10 pollutants, particles measuring 2.5 microns or less and up to 10 microns, respectively. Between the gaseous chemicals released and ultrafine pollutants produced, specific particles include:

Nitrogen Oxide
Carbon Monoxide
Formaldehyde
Soot
Smoke
Benzene

Long-term exposure to these particles can cause elevated health risks for lung cancer, respiratory complications, nasal irritation, and heart disease. Short-term symptoms can range from dizziness and confusion to chest pain and weakness. Alongside smoke exposure health risks, kitchen odors and smells can cause their own harmful effects as well.

Most common causes of kitchen odor

Kitchen odors are gaseous chemical emissions derived from various household sources, such as cleaning sprays, scented products, and open gas stove flames. Chemical pollutants are often mixed within scented or aerosol kitchen products that become airborne when sprayed and possibly ingested when eating. Kitchen odors can manifest through hidden sources as well, such as rotten food and sink drains, which produce mold spores that can persist.

Kitchen odors and mold spores linger if left untreated, manifesting on common surfaces such as fabrics, furniture, and walls. Extreme cases of mold exposure can lead to elevated health risks and respiratory symptoms. Various kitchen practices could also increase the likelihood of harmful cooking smoke and odor particles as well.

What contributes to cooking smoke and kitchen odor?

Some households may produce more abundant cooking smoke and kitchen odor particles based on cooking practices and appliances utilized. For instance, gas stoves create harmful gaseous emissions and smoke that can become airborne or get exposed to food. A study published in 2023 found gas stoves to be accountable for 13% of childhood asthma cases (2).

Aside from appliance emissions, cooking practices can also elevate pollutant particle levels. Overcooking food, burning fats and oils, stir-frying, and deep-frying can create abundant gaseous emissions and smoke (3). Unkept kitchens or spaces with a lack of ventilation may also encounter stronger kitchen odors.

To combat abundant cooking smoke and kitchen odor particles—cooking methods, open ventilation, and multi-layer air filtration are key in minimizing pollutants.

Clean air methods for kitchens and cooking spaces

Eliminating both kitchen odors and cooking smoke is not easy, requiring multilayer air quality interventions alongside routine rituals and cleaning. Several interventions can help improve the air quality in the kitchen:

Using an electric stove instead of a gas stove, as gas stoves produce significantly more air pollution than electric stovetops.
Installing a high quality exhaust range hood. Exhaust hoods actually expel air out of the house, while most range hoods recirculate air throughout the house. It is best to upgrade your range hood to an exhaust hood. Open windows when there is active cooking and utilize kitchen exhaust fans to ventilate out smoke.
Utilizing an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology and activated carbon is key—HyperHEPA filtration captures ultrafine particulate matter like cooking smoke, while activated carbon filters remove gaseous odor particles.
Daily practices and awareness can help ensure kitchen pollutants are kept at a minimum, including:\n
- Cooking Methods: Avoid burning food and oils.
- Kitchen Maintenance: Routinely clean surfaces, install a multifilter air purifier, and utilize chemical-free and scent-free cleaning products.
- Appliance Awareness: Ensure appliances are turned off when not in use and install air quality monitors next to stovetops.
\n

Through mindful cooking methods and powerful multilayer filtration, comprehensively clean air in kitchens is achievable.

Conclusion

Source control such as upgrading to electric stovetops and high-quality exhaust range hoods can help reduce the amount of air pollution from cooking smoke and kitchen odors. Air purifiers can effectively remove kitchen odors and cooking smoke if the system utilizes multilayer HyperHEPA filtration and activated carbon. By employing multilayer air filtration, maximum pollutant protection is provided and all various types of airborne particles are captured.

To ensure kitchen odors and smoke are eliminated at the source—clean cooking practices and electric stovetops can reduce pollutant exposure before it begins, keeping food and air quality safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are kitchen odors and cooking smoke harmful?
Yes, if left untreated, kitchen odors and cooking smoke can linger indoors, sticking to common surfaces such as furniture, fabrics, and walls. Long-term exposure with these pollutants can lead to elevated health risks and respiratory complications, especially for sensitive groups, such as children and the elderly.

How do I get rid of kitchen odors and cooking smoke?
To eliminate both kitchen odors and cooking smoke, it is important to utilize an air purifier with multilayer activated carbon and HyperHEPA filtration. Activated carbon filters eliminate gaseous odor particles while HyperHEPA filtration removes ultrafine particulate matter, providing comprehensively clean air quality.

Alongside air filtration, daily practices and clean cooking methods are key to limiting pollutant particles. Electric stoves, routine cleaning, and consistent ventilation can help minimize and protect against kitchen pollutants.

What causes kitchen odors and cooking smoke?
Kitchen odors and cooking smoke can be caused by and further elevated through several different variables.

For cooking smoke, gas stoves are found to produce heightened levels of gaseous pollutants and smoke compared to electric burners. Food preparation methods such as overcooking or deep-frying ingredients can lead to an abundance of cooking smoke as well.

For kitchen odors, lack of filtration and unclean spaces can elevate risks for mold production and lingering pollutants. To defend against kitchen odors, it is key to utilize chemical-free sanitization products and open windows during cooking hours to maximize ventilation.

What is the difference between kitchen odors and cooking smoke?
The main differences between kitchen odors and cooking smoke are the types of particles they release and origin sources.

Cooking smoke is a combination of gaseous emissions, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ultrafine particulate matter that is released during heated food preparation. On the other hand, kitchen odors do not necessarily depend on heat, releasing gaseous and chemical emissions through household cleaning products, sink drains, and molded food.

","can-air-purifiers-remove-cooking-smoke-and-kitchen-odors","gid://shopify/Article/642027913294","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/can-air-purifiers-remove-cooking-smoke-and-kitchen-odors","2026-08-18T15:00:04Z",[194,331],"Can air purifiers remove cooking smoke and kitchen odors?",{"_66":345,"_80":346,"_82":347,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274697748558","Atem Earth in a kitchen","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Article_CanAirPurifiersRemoveCookingSmokeKitchenOdors_Desk_803f802d-2108-44c2-9d31-20de4ce87b08.jpg?v=1787072941","Air Quality News - Air Quality","description","","http://www.iqair.cn/cn-en/newsroom?cursor=eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo2NDE4NTc2MTc5OTgsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE3ODM2ODcxNDgwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6NDh9&direction=previous&tag=Air+Quality","jsonLd",{"_354":355,"_356":357,"_92":348,"_349":350,"_82":351},"@context","https://schema.org","@type","Blog","Air Quality News",{"_75":-5,"_349":-5},"articles",{"_362":363,"_364":365},"nodes",[373,374,375,376,377,378,379,380,381,382,383,384],"pageInfo",{"_366":367,"_368":367,"_369":370,"_371":372},"hasPreviousPage",true,"hasNextPage","endCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo2NDE4NTkyMjM2MzAsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE3ODM3MTExODMwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6NDd9","startCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo2NDE4MTczNzg4OTQsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE3ODQzNzcxNzkwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6MzZ9",{"_51":52,"_53":556,"_11":557,"_56":558,"_58":559,"_60":560,"_62":561,"_64":562,"_66":563,"_68":564,"_70":-5,"_71":565,"_73":566,"_75":567,"_77":568},{"_51":52,"_53":541,"_11":542,"_56":543,"_58":544,"_60":545,"_62":546,"_64":547,"_66":548,"_68":549,"_70":-5,"_71":550,"_73":551,"_75":552,"_77":553},{"_51":52,"_53":525,"_11":526,"_56":527,"_58":528,"_60":529,"_62":530,"_64":531,"_66":532,"_68":533,"_70":-5,"_71":534,"_73":535,"_75":536,"_77":537},{"_51":52,"_53":510,"_11":511,"_56":512,"_58":513,"_60":514,"_62":515,"_64":516,"_66":517,"_68":518,"_70":-5,"_71":519,"_73":520,"_75":521,"_77":522},{"_51":52,"_53":494,"_11":495,"_56":496,"_58":497,"_60":498,"_62":499,"_64":500,"_66":501,"_68":502,"_70":-5,"_71":503,"_73":504,"_75":505,"_77":506},{"_51":52,"_53":478,"_11":479,"_56":480,"_58":481,"_60":482,"_62":483,"_64":484,"_66":485,"_68":486,"_70":-5,"_71":487,"_73":488,"_75":489,"_77":490},{"_51":52,"_53":463,"_11":464,"_56":465,"_58":466,"_60":467,"_62":468,"_64":469,"_66":470,"_68":471,"_70":-5,"_71":472,"_73":473,"_75":474,"_77":475},{"_51":52,"_53":448,"_11":449,"_56":450,"_58":451,"_60":452,"_62":453,"_64":454,"_66":455,"_68":456,"_70":-5,"_71":457,"_73":458,"_75":459,"_77":460},{"_51":52,"_53":432,"_11":433,"_56":434,"_58":435,"_60":436,"_62":437,"_64":438,"_66":439,"_68":440,"_70":-5,"_71":441,"_73":442,"_75":443,"_77":444},{"_51":52,"_53":416,"_11":417,"_56":418,"_58":419,"_60":420,"_62":421,"_64":422,"_66":423,"_68":424,"_70":-5,"_71":425,"_73":426,"_75":427,"_77":428},{"_51":52,"_53":401,"_11":402,"_56":403,"_58":404,"_60":405,"_62":406,"_64":407,"_66":408,"_68":409,"_70":-5,"_71":410,"_73":411,"_75":412,"_77":413},{"_51":52,"_53":385,"_11":386,"_56":387,"_58":388,"_60":389,"_62":390,"_64":391,"_66":392,"_68":393,"_70":-5,"_71":394,"_73":395,"_75":396,"_77":397},{"_92":237},{"_64":91},"With summer in full swing, air quality is becoming an increasing concern for outdoor community events. Learn the importance of planning ahead to protect yourself and fellow attendees.","

With summer in full swing, air quality is becoming an increasing concern for outdoor community events. Learn the importance of planning ahead to protect yourself and fellow attendees.

","As North America hosts some of the largest sporting events, concerts, festivals, races, and outdoor gatherings in its history, organizers are spending significant time planning for weather, security, transportation, and crowd safety. One critical factor often receives far less attention: air quality. A recent study published in Science found that increasing wildfire emissions are reversing decades of progress in reducing ozone pollution across the United States. Researchers found that ozone concentrations declined between 2003 and 2015, but many of those gains were lost between 2015 and 2024 as wildfire activity increased. The findings suggest that air quality conditions may become increasingly variable during the same seasons when many outdoor events take place. The study adds to a growing body of evidence showing that air quality is becoming more difficult to predict and more important to monitor. For organizations responsible for outdoor events, that trend carries practical implications. Millions of people spend time outdoors participating in events every year. At the same time, wildfire smoke has become a recurring challenge across large parts of North America. Communities located far from active fires are increasingly experiencing elevated levels of particulate pollution and ozone. Air quality is becoming another operational variable that event organizers need to manage. The Air Quality Blind Spot Most organizations already have established protocols for weather. Lightning can delay a game. Extreme heat can trigger cooling measures. Severe storms can postpone or cancel an event altogether. These systems exist because organizers understand that environmental conditions directly impact safety. Air quality often remains the exception. Many organizations still lack clear thresholds for action, communication protocols, or contingency plans when pollution levels become unhealthy. Yet air pollution can affect respiratory function, cardiovascular health, athletic performance, and overall well-being. Sensitive populations, including children, older adults, and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, may face elevated risks during pollution events. Unlike severe weather, poor air quality is not always obvious. Ozone is invisible, and high PM2.5 levels may not be immediately apparent. Without monitoring, organizers may not know conditions have changed until participants begin reporting symptoms. From an Environmental Issue to an Operational Issue For years, air quality was viewed primarily as an environmental concern. Increasingly, it is becoming an operational concern, as well. Organizations cannot effectively manage risks they cannot see. As environmental conditions become less predictable, access to reliable air quality information becomes an important part of planning, communication, and public safety decision-making. Just as organizations have learned to adapt to extreme heat and severe weather, they can incorporate air quality into broader risk management strategies. That starts with access to reliable, real-time information. Event organizers should understand local air quality conditions before an event begins and have systems in place to monitor changing conditions throughout the day. It also requires clear decision-making frameworks. What air quality thresholds trigger public health advisories? How will participants and spectators be notified? What accommodations are available for sensitive individuals? How will organizers respond if conditions deteriorate unexpectedly? These are questions that can be addressed before an event begins rather than during a crisis. A New Era of Event Planning The Science study reflects a broader shift in the way event organizers need to think about air quality. Wildfires and extreme heat are affecting more communities, while many major metropolitan areas already contend with pollution from traffic, energy production, and other urban sources. Together, these factors can create unhealthy air quality with little warning The 2023 Canadian wildfires illustrated just how far those impacts can reach. Smoke drifted into the northeastern United States, creating hazardous conditions hundreds of miles from the fires. Major League Baseball postponed games, outdoor practices were canceled, and organizers across the region were forced to adjust plans as conditions changed. Air quality planning shouldn't start when smoke is already in the forecast. It should be built into event planning from the beginning, with clear procedures for monitoring conditions, communicating with participants, and determining when activities should be modified, postponed or canceled. Most organizations already have established plans for severe weather and other emergencies. Air quality deserves the same level of preparation. Real-time air quality data gives organizers the ability to monitor changing conditions and base decisions on current information rather than assumptions. That helps event staff communicate more clearly with athletes, performers, workers, volunteers, and attendees when conditions change. As cities continue to host major sporting events, concerts, festivals, and community gatherings, air quality should be considered alongside weather, security, transportation, and other public safety planning. Organizations that prepare before air quality becomes a problem will be better equipped to protect public health and keep events running as safely as possible.","

As North America hosts some of the largest sporting events, concerts, festivals, races, and outdoor gatherings in its history, organizers are spending significant time planning for weather, security, transportation, and crowd safety. One critical factor often receives far less attention: air quality.

A recent study published in Science found that increasing wildfire emissions are reversing decades of progress in reducing ozone pollution across the United States. Researchers found that ozone concentrations declined between 2003 and 2015, but many of those gains were lost between 2015 and 2024 as wildfire activity increased.

The findings suggest that air quality conditions may become increasingly variable during the same seasons when many outdoor events take place.

The study adds to a growing body of evidence showing that air quality is becoming more difficult to predict and more important to monitor.

For organizations responsible for outdoor events, that trend carries practical implications.

Millions of people spend time outdoors participating in events every year. At the same time, wildfire smoke has become a recurring challenge across large parts of North America. Communities located far from active fires are increasingly experiencing elevated levels of particulate pollution and ozone.

Air quality is becoming another operational variable that event organizers need to manage.

The Air Quality Blind Spot

Most organizations already have established protocols for weather. Lightning can delay a game. Extreme heat can trigger cooling measures. Severe storms can postpone or cancel an event altogether. These systems exist because organizers understand that environmental conditions directly impact safety.

Air quality often remains the exception.

Many organizations still lack clear thresholds for action, communication protocols, or contingency plans when pollution levels become unhealthy. Yet air pollution can affect respiratory function, cardiovascular health, athletic performance, and overall well-being. Sensitive populations, including children, older adults, and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, may face elevated risks during pollution events.

Unlike severe weather, poor air quality is not always obvious. Ozone is invisible, and high PM2.5 levels may not be immediately apparent. Without monitoring, organizers may not know conditions have changed until participants begin reporting symptoms.

From an Environmental Issue to an Operational Issue

For years, air quality was viewed primarily as an environmental concern. Increasingly, it is becoming an operational concern, as well.

Organizations cannot effectively manage risks they cannot see. As environmental conditions become less predictable, access to reliable air quality information becomes an important part of planning, communication, and public safety decision-making.

Just as organizations have learned to adapt to extreme heat and severe weather, they can incorporate air quality into broader risk management strategies. That starts with access to reliable, real-time information.

Event organizers should understand local air quality conditions before an event begins and have systems in place to monitor changing conditions throughout the day. It also requires clear decision-making frameworks. What air quality thresholds trigger public health advisories? How will participants and spectators be notified? What accommodations are available for sensitive individuals? How will organizers respond if conditions deteriorate unexpectedly?

These are questions that can be addressed before an event begins rather than during a crisis.

A New Era of Event Planning

The Science study reflects a broader shift in the way event organizers need to think about air quality. Wildfires and extreme heat are affecting more communities, while many major metropolitan areas already contend with pollution from traffic, energy production, and other urban sources. Together, these factors can create unhealthy air quality with little warning

The 2023 Canadian wildfires illustrated just how far those impacts can reach. Smoke drifted into the northeastern United States, creating hazardous conditions hundreds of miles from the fires. Major League Baseball postponed games, outdoor practices were canceled, and organizers across the region were forced to adjust plans as conditions changed.

Air quality planning shouldn't start when smoke is already in the forecast. It should be built into event planning from the beginning, with clear procedures for monitoring conditions, communicating with participants, and determining when activities should be modified, postponed or canceled.

Most organizations already have established plans for severe weather and other emergencies. Air quality deserves the same level of preparation.

Real-time air quality data gives organizers the ability to monitor changing conditions and base decisions on current information rather than assumptions. That helps event staff communicate more clearly with athletes, performers, workers, volunteers, and attendees when conditions change.

As cities continue to host major sporting events, concerts, festivals, and community gatherings, air quality should be considered alongside weather, security, transportation, and other public safety planning. Organizations that prepare before air quality becomes a problem will be better equipped to protect public health and keep events running as safely as possible.

","air-quality-is-becoming-an-essential-part-of-event-planning","gid://shopify/Article/641859223630","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/air-quality-is-becoming-an-essential-part-of-event-planning","2026-07-10T19:19:43Z",[14,210,236],"Air Quality: An Essential Part of Event Planning",{"_66":398,"_80":399,"_82":400,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274050089038","Soccer stadium","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Article_ThoughtLeadership_AirQualityDeservesaPlaceinEventPlanning_Desk_322c034c-552b-4e38-8b64-ea01e241211d.jpg?v=1783711216",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Learn more about the Chelan Hills Fire in Washington, including affected communities, evacuation orders, road closures, and firefighting efforts.","

Learn more about the Chelan Hills Fire in Washington, including affected communities, evacuation orders, road closures, and firefighting efforts.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of July 11, 2026, the Chelan Hills Fire burned in Douglas County, Washington, near Orondo and the Chelan Hills area. The fire burned through grass, timber, and ponderosa pine fuels west of U.S. Highway 97, south of Beebe Bridge (1). Rapid fire growth, dry vegetation, and windy conditions prompted a large emergency response, with firefighters working to protect threatened homes and slow the fire's spread. Which cities or areas are affected by the Chelan Hills Fire? The following cities and areas were affected by the Chelan Hills Fire: Beebe Bridge area Box Canyon Road area Chelan Hills Orondo U.S. Highway 97 corridor What is the current containment status of the Chelan Hills Fire? As of July 11, 2026, the Chelan Hills Fire burned approximately 9,861.6 acres and is 100% contained. Firefighters successfully contained the fire using engines, hand crews, bulldozers, and aircraft where conditions allowed. Crews protected homes, strengthened fire lines, and prevented further spread despite hot, dry weather and challenging terrain during suppression efforts (2). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? All evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, and emergency alerts have been lifted. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of July 11, 2026, this fire is 100% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of July 11, 2026, the Chelan Hills Fire burned in Douglas County, Washington, near Orondo and the Chelan Hills area. The fire burned through grass, timber, and ponderosa pine fuels west of U.S. Highway 97, south of Beebe Bridge (1).

Rapid fire growth, dry vegetation, and windy conditions prompted a large emergency response, with firefighters working to protect threatened homes and slow the fire's spread.

Which cities or areas are affected by the Chelan Hills Fire?

The following cities and areas were affected by the Chelan Hills Fire:

Beebe Bridge area
Box Canyon Road area
Chelan Hills
Orondo
U.S. Highway 97 corridor
\n

What is the current containment status of the Chelan Hills Fire?

As of July 11, 2026, the Chelan Hills Fire burned approximately 9,861.6 acres and is 100% contained.

Firefighters successfully contained the fire using engines, hand crews, bulldozers, and aircraft where conditions allowed. Crews protected homes, strengthened fire lines, and prevented further spread despite hot, dry weather and challenging terrain during suppression efforts (2).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

All evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, and emergency alerts have been lifted.

\n\n

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of July 11, 2026, this fire is 100% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-chelan-hills-fire-washington","gid://shopify/Article/641833173070","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-chelan-hills-fire-washington","2026-07-11T08:28:58Z",[14,210,211],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Chelan Hills Fire, Washington",{"_66":414,"_80":-5,"_82":415,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274055626830","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/CityMountainFire4Desktop_d53afef5-877d-4dc2-a6f8-730908096551.jpg?v=1783761056",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Severe flooding in Bangladesh has affected more than 1 million people across seven districts, causing deaths, displacement, and infrastructure damage. Learn about affected areas, response efforts, and flood alerts.","

Severe flooding in Bangladesh has affected more than 1 million people across seven districts, causing deaths, displacement, and infrastructure damage. Learn about affected areas, response efforts, and flood alerts.

","What is the location of the flooding? Since early July 2026, torrential monsoon rains, upstream runoff, and landslides have caused severe flooding across southeastern and northeastern Bangladesh (1). The worst impacts have been reported in Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar, where widespread inundation has damaged homes, roads, crops, and communication networks. Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Flooding has affected seven districts across Bangladesh, with the most severe impacts reported in: Bandarban Chattogram Cox’s Bazar Habiganj Khagrachhari Moulvibazar Rangamati In Chattogram, areas including Anwara, Banshkhali, Chandanaish, Lohagara, and Satkania have experienced widespread inundation. In Cox’s Bazar: Chakaria, Matamuhuri, and Pekua remain among the worst-affected areas, with thousands of residents stranded (2). What is the current containment status of the flooding? Flood containment remains challenging as heavy rainfall continues in some areas and many communities remain submerged. More than 1 million people have been affected, with over 267,000 families stranded across seven districts (3). Rescue and relief operations are ongoing, with authorities distributing food, water, and medical supplies while emergency teams use boats to reach isolated communities (4). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Authorities have opened more than 1,100 shelters across affected districts, with tens of thousands of residents relocated. The government has urged people in flooded and landslide-prone areas to move to safer locations and follow emergency advisories. Weather authorities continue warning of heavy rainfall and landslide risks in vulnerable areas (5). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

Since early July 2026, torrential monsoon rains, upstream runoff, and landslides have caused severe flooding across southeastern and northeastern Bangladesh (1).

The worst impacts have been reported in Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar, where widespread inundation has damaged homes, roads, crops, and communication networks.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Flooding has affected seven districts across Bangladesh, with the most severe impacts reported in:

Bandarban
Chattogram
Cox’s Bazar
Habiganj
Khagrachhari
Moulvibazar
Rangamati

In Chattogram, areas including Anwara, Banshkhali, Chandanaish, Lohagara, and Satkania have experienced widespread inundation.

In Cox’s Bazar: Chakaria, Matamuhuri, and Pekua remain among the worst-affected areas, with thousands of residents stranded (2).

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

Flood containment remains challenging as heavy rainfall continues in some areas and many communities remain submerged. More than 1 million people have been affected, with over 267,000 families stranded across seven districts (3).

Rescue and relief operations are ongoing, with authorities distributing food, water, and medical supplies while emergency teams use boats to reach isolated communities (4).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities have opened more than 1,100 shelters across affected districts, with tens of thousands of residents relocated. The government has urged people in flooded and landslide-prone areas to move to safer locations and follow emergency advisories.

Weather authorities continue warning of heavy rainfall and landslide risks in vulnerable areas (5).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-bangladesh-monsoon-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/641871446094","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-bangladesh-monsoon-flooding","2026-07-13T10:00:33Z",[14,210,431],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Bangladesh Monsoon Flooding",{"_66":429,"_80":-5,"_82":430,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274078662734","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Flooding6Desktop_e3523803-6d8a-4fb5-a509-d3ef9ec4491c.jpg?v=1783981535","Molds",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Learn why air quality is poor in Kampala today, what is causing the pollution, and when conditions are expected to improve.","

Learn why air quality is poor in Kampala today, what is causing the pollution, and when conditions are expected to improve.

","Is the air quality good in Kampala? On July 13, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time), air quality in Kampala, Uganda, is poor with an AQI of 177, which falls within the \"unhealthy\" range. These conditions can cause health effects for everyone, with children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with heart or lung conditions facing the greatest risk. Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. Kampala is ranked the most polluted major city in the world on Monday morning. Click here for a real-time air quality map of Kampala. While the air quality conditions today are poor, it is important to note that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for Kampala was 44.2 µg/m³. This corresponds to an AQI of 129, which falls into the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category and was 8.8 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Kampala, Uganda ranked as the most polluted major city on July 13, 2026, 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. When will air quality improve in Kampala? Air quality is expected to improve into the moderate range by this evening. Hourly air quality forecast for Kampala, Uganda on July 13, 2026. Source: IQAir. While conditions are expected to improve later today, sensitive groups should continue to monitor local air quality and limit prolonged outdoor activity if pollution remains elevated. Air quality map of Kampala, Uganda on July 13, 2026. Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Kampala? Poor air quality in Kampala is driven by a combination of transportation emissions, urban development, and other local pollution sources. Key contributors include: Vehicle emissions are the largest contributor, accounting for about 60% of particulate pollution. Many imported vehicles are older, poorly maintained, and produce emissions well above modern standards (1). Traffic congestion, road dust from unpaved roads, and brake and tire wear further increase fine particulate pollution, particularly during busy travel periods. Burning of biomass, household solid fuels, and open waste burning contribute additional PM2.5 pollution across the city (2). Rapid urban growth, industrial activities, and limited green space in some neighborhoods also contribute to higher pollution levels (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Kampala?

On July 13, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time), air quality in Kampala, Uganda, is poor with an AQI of 177, which falls within the \"unhealthy\" range.

These conditions can cause health effects for everyone, with children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with heart or lung conditions facing the greatest risk.

Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. Kampala is ranked the most polluted major city in the world on Monday morning.

Click here for a real-time air quality map of Kampala.

While the air quality conditions today are poor, it is important to note that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for Kampala was 44.2 µg/m³. This corresponds to an AQI of 129, which falls into the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category and was 8.8 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.

$\"\"$ Kampala, Uganda ranked as the most polluted major city on July 13, 2026, 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

When will air quality improve in Kampala?

Air quality is expected to improve into the moderate range by this evening.

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Kampala, Uganda on July 13, 2026. Source: IQAir.

While conditions are expected to improve later today, sensitive groups should continue to monitor local air quality and limit prolonged outdoor activity if pollution remains elevated.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Kampala, Uganda on July 13, 2026. Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Kampala?

Poor air quality in Kampala is driven by a combination of transportation emissions, urban development, and other local pollution sources.

Key contributors include:

Vehicle emissions are the largest contributor, accounting for about 60% of particulate pollution. Many imported vehicles are older, poorly maintained, and produce emissions well above modern standards (1).
Traffic congestion, road dust from unpaved roads, and brake and tire wear further increase fine particulate pollution, particularly during busy travel periods.
Burning of biomass, household solid fuels, and open waste burning contribute additional PM2.5 pollution across the city (2).
Rapid urban growth, industrial activities, and limited green space in some neighborhoods also contribute to higher pollution levels (3).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","kampala-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-7-13-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641872527438","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/kampala-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-7-13-2026","2026-07-13T10:13:48Z",[14,210],"July 13, 2026: Kampala among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_66":445,"_80":446,"_82":447,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274073845838","Polluted skies of Kampala.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/kampala_DESK_9ed5a40b-34e1-46e2-b4c1-8f849eea81fa.jpg?v=1783938227",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Air quality is becoming an increasing issue globally, but local communities are fighting back against pollution. See how these 5 Asian cities have taken steps to improve their air quality.","

Air quality is becoming an increasing issue globally, but local communities are fighting back against pollution. See how these 5 Asian cities have taken steps to improve their air quality.

","The 2025 World Air Quality Report indicates signs of progress despite the ongoing global struggle with air pollution. Some of Asia’s biggest cities reduced their PM2.5 concentrations in 2025 when compared to 2024. However, those improvements are still far from sufficient. Three of the five cities on this list continue to consistently experience air quality levels classified as very unhealthy to hazardous. Millions of residents in these major cities still face elevated health risks from long-term exposure to airborne pollutants like PM2.5 – tiny particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns in diameter. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart disease, bear the brunt of this burden. Though there is much more progress to be made, any improvement in air quality is a step in the right direction towards achieving safe and breathable air for all. 5. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia Ulaanbaatar reduced its average annual PM2.5 concentration from 25.7 µg/m³ in 2024 to 17.9 µg/m³ in 2025, an improvement of 7.8 µg/m³. The decreased PM2.5 levels is a step in the right direction towards healthy breathing, but Ulaanbaatar’s air quality still does not reach the World Health Organization’s safe concentration level guideline of 5 µg/m³ (1). Diesel fuels and coal burning are common resources for resident heating and vehicle operations in Ulaanbaatar, creating an abundance of airborne pollutants. Especially in the colder winter months, added coal burning and temperature inversions trap large amounts of pollutants close to the ground, elevating PM2.5 concentrations. Air quality in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir. In 2019, the Mongolian Government enacted a ban against raw coal utilization for domestic heating (2). Long-term clean air solutions depend on resources that provide sustainable fuel and healthy utilization with low respiratory risks. 4. Chiang Mai, Thailand Chiang Mai saw its average annual PM2.5 concentration drop from 26.4 µg/m³ in 2024 to 18.2 µg/m³ in 2025, marking an 8.2 µg/m³ improvement. The shift in PM2.5 levels is a notable improvement for the northern Thai city, inching closer to safe air quality levels for all. However, Chiang Mai maintains a moderate air quality index, which may depend on clean fuel and agricultural resources to reach low-risk PM2.5 concentrations. Air quality in Chiang Mai, Thailand on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir. Chiang Mai experiences fluctuating air quality conditions and seasonal pollutants bursts, particularly during the dry season. Cultural crop burnings are the most prevalent in Chiang Mai, causing mass production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter across the city within the warmer months. Communities and residents in Thailand have pushed for systemic change within the air quality landscape, introducing a Clean Air Bill and non-profit initiatives (3). 3. Delhi, India Delhi, one of the world’s most polluted cities, was able to lower its average annual PM2.5 concentration from 108.3 µg/m³ in 2024 to 99.6 µg/m³ in 2025, an improvement of 8.7 µg/m³. While the reduced PM2.5 levels are an impactful step towards safe breathing conditions, Delhi’s air quality index remains in the unhealthy range, and airborne pollutants could still invade indoor spaces. Air quality in Delhi, India on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir. Delhi, a populous urban city, experiences a complex mix of airborne pollutants and harmful particulate matter year-round, including construction dust, cultural crop burnings, and industrial emissions. Traffic pollution and gases are among the most prevalent pollutants in India, contributing to about 11% of air pollutant-related deaths in the country (4). In 2026, Delhi reformed traffic policies and promoted incentives for residents to switch to electric-powered vehicles (5)(6). However, long-term systemic shifts in fuel utilization and energy sources hold the potential to extend air quality improvements. 2. Dhaka, Bangladesh Dhaka reduced its average annual PM2.5 concentration from 78 µg/m³ in 2024 to 68 µg/m³ in 2025, achieving a 10 µg/m³ improvement. Dhaka has maintained unhealthy AQI levels since the first World Air Quality Report in 2017, but the city has reached its most improved PM2.5 concentrations in 2025. Despite the improved air quality conditions and decreased PM2.5 exposure, the city’s air remains at an unhealthy AQI level, creating a harmful breathing environment for sensitive populations. Dhaka faces numerous air pollution concerns derived from busy highways and high-production factories, including abundant traffic emissions, particulate matter from construction sites, and industrial smoke. As a country, Bangladesh established a National Air Quality Management Plan for 2024-2030, focused on reducing PM2.5 concentrations and decreasing pollutant production nationwide. For long-term air quality improvement, limiting brick kilns and harmful cooking sources is key, as these pollutants have been linked to elevated respiratory health risks and the production of over 200 volatile organic compounds (7). Air quality in Dhaka, Bangladesh on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir. 1. Lahore, Pakistan Lahore achieved the most significant improvement among the top five major cities. The city reduced its average annual PM2.5 concentration from 102.1 µg/m³ in 2024 to 88.9 µg/m³ in 2025, a 13.2 µg/m³ drop. Air quality in Lahore, Pakistan on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir. While a positive development, this progress needs to be weighed in context with another fact: Lahore’s air quality has been in the hazardous range since the first World Air Quality Report in 2017, and it was ranked the second most polluted major city in the world in 2025. The city’s pollution is driven by a combination of factors, including vehicular emissions from an aging fleet, industrial activity, dust from construction, and seasonal crop burning in Punjab Province. While the Pakistani government has introduced measures such as smog alerts, temporary school closures, and restrictions on certain industrial activities during high-pollution periods, seasonal air quality issues persist. The health impact is clear: 68% of Pakistanis reported smog-related health issues in a survey conducted in 2024. 84% of respondents living in Lahore noted they had experienced respiratory illnesses (8). Pathways to cleaner air While the improvements in these cities are a step in the right direction, mitigating persistent poor air quality requires sustained action. Here’s how progress can be accelerated: What governments can do Strengthen and enforce air quality standards to hold industries and vehicles accountable for their emissions. Invest in renewable energy and public transportation to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and private vehicles. Expand air quality monitoring networks to provide real-time data and inform targeted interventions. Promote regional cooperation to address transboundary pollution, such as crop burning and industrial emissions that cross borders. What communities can do Support and participate in local initiatives to raise awareness about air pollution and its health impacts. Advocate for stronger policies and better enforcement to protect vulnerable populations. What individuals can do Choose sustainable transportation options, such as walking, cycling, or using public transit, to reduce personal contributions to air pollution. Use air purifiers and wear high-quality masks on high-pollution days to limit exposure. Stay informed about real-time air quality data to make healthier daily decisions. Conclusion Air quality improvement in these five Asian cities offers hope in the ongoing fight for clean air. However, the fact that three of these cities—Delhi, Dhaka, and Lahore—still have air quality levels classified as unhealthy to hazardous underscores the long journey towards clean air quality. It’s true that millions of people in these cities and around the world continue to breathe air that is far from safe. Yet progress shown in 2025 can serve as a foundation for bolder, more ambitious action to ensure that clean air becomes a reality for all.","

The 2025 World Air Quality Report indicates signs of progress despite the ongoing global struggle with air pollution. Some of Asia’s biggest cities reduced their PM2.5 concentrations in 2025 when compared to 2024. However, those improvements are still far from sufficient. Three of the five cities on this list continue to consistently experience air quality levels classified as very unhealthy to hazardous.

Millions of residents in these major cities still face elevated health risks from long-term exposure to airborne pollutants like PM2.5 – tiny particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns in diameter. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart disease, bear the brunt of this burden. Though there is much more progress to be made, any improvement in air quality is a step in the right direction towards achieving safe and breathable air for all.

5. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

$\"\"$

Ulaanbaatar reduced its average annual PM2.5 concentration from 25.7 µg/m³ in 2024 to 17.9 µg/m³ in 2025, an improvement of 7.8 µg/m³.

The decreased PM2.5 levels is a step in the right direction towards healthy breathing, but Ulaanbaatar’s air quality still does not reach the World Health Organization’s safe concentration level guideline of 5 µg/m³ (1).

Diesel fuels and coal burning are common resources for resident heating and vehicle operations in Ulaanbaatar, creating an abundance of airborne pollutants. Especially in the colder winter months, added coal burning and temperature inversions trap large amounts of pollutants close to the ground, elevating PM2.5 concentrations.

$\"\"$

Air quality in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir.

In 2019, the Mongolian Government enacted a ban against raw coal utilization for domestic heating (2). Long-term clean air solutions depend on resources that provide sustainable fuel and healthy utilization with low respiratory risks.

4. Chiang Mai, Thailand

$\"\"$

Chiang Mai saw its average annual PM2.5 concentration drop from 26.4 µg/m³ in 2024 to 18.2 µg/m³ in 2025, marking an 8.2 µg/m³ improvement.

The shift in PM2.5 levels is a notable improvement for the northern Thai city, inching closer to safe air quality levels for all. However, Chiang Mai maintains a moderate air quality index, which may depend on clean fuel and agricultural resources to reach low-risk PM2.5 concentrations.

$\"\"$

Air quality in Chiang Mai, Thailand on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Chiang Mai experiences fluctuating air quality conditions and seasonal pollutants bursts, particularly during the dry season. Cultural crop burnings are the most prevalent in Chiang Mai, causing mass production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter across the city within the warmer months.

Communities and residents in Thailand have pushed for systemic change within the air quality landscape, introducing a Clean Air Bill and non-profit initiatives (3).

3. Delhi, India

$\"\"$

Delhi, one of the world’s most polluted cities, was able to lower its average annual PM2.5 concentration from 108.3 µg/m³ in 2024 to 99.6 µg/m³ in 2025, an improvement of 8.7 µg/m³.

While the reduced PM2.5 levels are an impactful step towards safe breathing conditions, Delhi’s air quality index remains in the unhealthy range, and airborne pollutants could still invade indoor spaces.

$\"\"$

Air quality in Delhi, India on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Delhi, a populous urban city, experiences a complex mix of airborne pollutants and harmful particulate matter year-round, including construction dust, cultural crop burnings, and industrial emissions. Traffic pollution and gases are among the most prevalent pollutants in India, contributing to about 11% of air pollutant-related deaths in the country (4).

In 2026, Delhi reformed traffic policies and promoted incentives for residents to switch to electric-powered vehicles (5)(6). However, long-term systemic shifts in fuel utilization and energy sources hold the potential to extend air quality improvements.

2. Dhaka, Bangladesh

$\"\"$

Dhaka reduced its average annual PM2.5 concentration from 78 µg/m³ in 2024 to 68 µg/m³ in 2025, achieving a 10 µg/m³ improvement.

Dhaka has maintained unhealthy AQI levels since the first World Air Quality Report in 2017, but the city has reached its most improved PM2.5 concentrations in 2025. Despite the improved air quality conditions and decreased PM2.5 exposure, the city’s air remains at an unhealthy AQI level, creating a harmful breathing environment for sensitive populations.

Dhaka faces numerous air pollution concerns derived from busy highways and high-production factories, including abundant traffic emissions, particulate matter from construction sites, and industrial smoke. As a country, Bangladesh established a National Air Quality Management Plan for 2024-2030, focused on reducing PM2.5 concentrations and decreasing pollutant production nationwide. For long-term air quality improvement, limiting brick kilns and harmful cooking sources is key, as these pollutants have been linked to elevated respiratory health risks and the production of over 200 volatile organic compounds (7).

$\"\"$

Air quality in Dhaka, Bangladesh on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir.

1. Lahore, Pakistan

$\"\"$

Lahore achieved the most significant improvement among the top five major cities. The city reduced its average annual PM2.5 concentration from 102.1 µg/m³ in 2024 to 88.9 µg/m³ in 2025, a 13.2 µg/m³ drop.

$\"\"$

Air quality in Lahore, Pakistan on June 25, 2026. Source: IQAir.

While a positive development, this progress needs to be weighed in context with another fact: Lahore’s air quality has been in the hazardous range since the first World Air Quality Report in 2017, and it was ranked the second most polluted major city in the world in 2025.

The city’s pollution is driven by a combination of factors, including vehicular emissions from an aging fleet, industrial activity, dust from construction, and seasonal crop burning in Punjab Province. While the Pakistani government has introduced measures such as smog alerts, temporary school closures, and restrictions on certain industrial activities during high-pollution periods, seasonal air quality issues persist. The health impact is clear: 68% of Pakistanis reported smog-related health issues in a survey conducted in 2024. 84% of respondents living in Lahore noted they had experienced respiratory illnesses (8).

Pathways to cleaner air

While the improvements in these cities are a step in the right direction, mitigating persistent poor air quality requires sustained action. Here’s how progress can be accelerated:

What governments can do

Strengthen and enforce air quality standards to hold industries and vehicles accountable for their emissions.
Invest in renewable energy and public transportation to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and private vehicles.
Expand air quality monitoring networks to provide real-time data and inform targeted interventions.
Promote regional cooperation to address transboundary pollution, such as crop burning and industrial emissions that cross borders.

What communities can do

Support and participate in local initiatives to raise awareness about air pollution and its health impacts.
\nAdvocate for stronger policies and better enforcement to protect vulnerable populations.

What individuals can do

Choose sustainable transportation options, such as walking, cycling, or using public transit, to reduce personal contributions to air pollution.
\nUse air purifiers and wear high-quality masks on high-pollution days to limit exposure.
Stay informed about real-time air quality data to make healthier daily decisions.
\n

Conclusion

Air quality improvement in these five Asian cities offers hope in the ongoing fight for clean air. However, the fact that three of these cities—Delhi, Dhaka, and Lahore—still have air quality levels classified as unhealthy to hazardous underscores the long journey towards clean air quality.

It’s true that millions of people in these cities and around the world continue to breathe air that is far from safe. Yet progress shown in 2025 can serve as a foundation for bolder, more ambitious action to ensure that clean air becomes a reality for all.

","top-5-asian-cities-with-most-improved-air-quality-in-2025","gid://shopify/Article/641823703118","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/top-5-asian-cities-with-most-improved-air-quality-in-2025","2026-07-13T15:00:02Z",[14,210,88],"Top 5 Asian cities with most improved air quality in 2025",{"_66":461,"_80":-5,"_82":462,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274075746382","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Article_MostImprovedAsia_Desktop.jpg?v=1783955500",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"A fast-moving wildfire in the historic Fontainebleau forest south of Paris has burned more than 1,200 hectares, forcing evacuations and disrupting road and rail traffic during an ongoing heatwave. Find out more about this wildfire.","

A fast-moving wildfire in the historic Fontainebleau forest south of Paris has burned more than 1,200 hectares, forcing evacuations and disrupting road and rail traffic during an ongoing heatwave. Find out more about this wildfire.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of July 14, 2026, the Fontainebleau Forest Fire is actively burning in the historic Fontainebleau Forest, approximately 60 km (40 miles) southeast of Paris, France (1). The fire erupted on Sunday, July 12, within a UNESCO biosphere reserve and former royal hunting estate. Authorities suspect the fire may have been deliberately set, with around ten ignition points identified within a 1,000-metre perimeter, and two people arrested in connection with the blaze (2). Fire map of Fontainebleau Forest region, France, as of July 14, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities or areas are affected by the Fontainebleau Forest Fire? The Fontainebleau Forest Fire is affecting several communities, including: Arbonne-la-Forêt Fontainebleau Milly-la-Forêt Noisy-sur-École Le Vaudoué What is the current containment status of the Fontainebleau Forest Fire? As of the evening of July 13, 2026, the fire remains active, having scorched more than 1,300 hectares (3,200 acres). Weather conditions remain unfavorable, with around 600 firefighters continuing operations through the night in rotating shifts (3). Four Canadair aircraft, two Dash planes, and three water-bombing helicopters were deployed, an unprecedented response for the greater Paris region, carrying out 187 water drops throughout the day. Aircraft scooped water directly from the River Seine to aid firefighting efforts. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Around 1,000 people in and around Fontainebleau have been evacuated. Fifteen homes in the village of Le Vaudoué were among those evacuated early in the incident (4). Some 26 million people across France were placed under a red heatwave warning on Monday, including the greater Paris region (5). The A6 motorway linking Paris with Lyon and southern France was partially closed, and high-speed train services were disrupted, though rail services later resumed following cable repairs. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of July 14, 2026, the Fontainebleau Forest Fire is actively burning in the historic Fontainebleau Forest, approximately 60 km (40 miles) southeast of Paris, France (1).

The fire erupted on Sunday, July 12, within a UNESCO biosphere reserve and former royal hunting estate.

Authorities suspect the fire may have been deliberately set, with around ten ignition points identified within a 1,000-metre perimeter, and two people arrested in connection with the blaze (2).

$\"\"$ Fire map of Fontainebleau Forest region, France, as of July 14, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities or areas are affected by the Fontainebleau Forest Fire?

The Fontainebleau Forest Fire is affecting several communities, including:

Arbonne-la-Forêt
Fontainebleau
Milly-la-Forêt
Noisy-sur-École
Le Vaudoué
\n

What is the current containment status of the Fontainebleau Forest Fire?

As of the evening of July 13, 2026, the fire remains active, having scorched more than 1,300 hectares (3,200 acres). Weather conditions remain unfavorable, with around 600 firefighters continuing operations through the night in rotating shifts (3).

Four Canadair aircraft, two Dash planes, and three water-bombing helicopters were deployed, an unprecedented response for the greater Paris region, carrying out 187 water drops throughout the day. Aircraft scooped water directly from the River Seine to aid firefighting efforts.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Around 1,000 people in and around Fontainebleau have been evacuated. Fifteen homes in the village of Le Vaudoué were among those evacuated early in the incident (4).

Some 26 million people across France were placed under a red heatwave warning on Monday, including the greater Paris region (5).

The A6 motorway linking Paris with Lyon and southern France was partially closed, and high-speed train services were disrupted, though rail services later resumed following cable repairs.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

","wildfire-map-spotlight-fontainebleau-forest-fire-france","gid://shopify/Article/641875640398","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-fontainebleau-forest-fire-france","2026-07-14T04:58:03Z",[14,210,211],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Fontainebleau Forest Fire, France",{"_66":476,"_80":-5,"_82":477,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274091376718","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire6Desktop_00462f68-aeef-4c6a-af69-42d6fba4e7e8.jpg?v=1784048910",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Find out more about the Northwestern Ontario wildfires, including impacted communities, wildfire smoke, evacuation orders, and the latest response efforts.","

Find out more about the Northwestern Ontario wildfires, including impacted communities, wildfire smoke, evacuation orders, and the latest response efforts.

","What are the name and location of the wildfires? As of July 15, 2026, multiple wildfires continue to burn across northwestern Ontario, Canada, threatening communities and producing widespread smoke. More than 100 active wildfires are burning across the region, with numerous fires remaining out of control due to extreme heat, dry conditions, and strong winds (1). The fires are burning across districts including Nipigon, Sioux Lookout, Red Lake, Dryden, Fort Frances, and areas along the Ontario-Minnesota border. Significant wildfire activity is also occurring near Wabakimi Provincial Park, Quetico Provincial Park, Lake Nipigon, Lac la Croix, Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, and several remote Indigenous communities. Several fires have expanded rapidly over recent days, with some merging into larger complexes while others have crossed the international border from Minnesota into Ontario. Provincial firefighting resources continue to focus on protecting communities, critical infrastructure, and transportation corridors as additional crews arrive to assist with suppression efforts (2). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires? The cities and areas affected by the Northwestern Ontario wildfires include: Armstrong Collins First Nation (Namaygoosisagagun First Nation) Cushing Lake Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation) Gull Bay First Nation (Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek) Ignace Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation McDowell Lake area Pickle Lake Quetico Provincial Park Thunder Bay (evacuation hub) Upsala Wabakimi Provincial Park Whitesand First Nation Smoke from the Northwestern Ontario wildfires is affecting air quality across parts of Canada and the northeastern United States. The cities and areas affected by wildfire smoke include: Alma, Quebec Boston, Massachusetts Duluth, Minnesota Grand Marais, Minnesota Greater Sudbury, Ontario Hancock, Michigan Kingston, Ontario Marquette, Michigan Montreal, Quebec Owen Sound, Ontario Peterborough, Ontario Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario Springfield, Massachusetts Toronto, Ontario As of July 15, 8:00 AM (local time) Toronto ranked as the 2nd most polluted major cities in the world. Toronto, Canada ranked as the 2nd most polluted major city on July 15, 2026, 8:00 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. Smoke is contributing to poor air quality across much of southern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area, while a shifting weather pattern is expected to transport dense smoke into parts of Quebec, the Great Lakes, and the northeastern United States. Areas beneath the thickest smoke plume may experience unhealthy air quality, reduced visibility, and increased health risks, particularly for sensitive groups (3). What is the current containment status of the wildfires? As of July 15, 2026, wildfire activity across northwestern Ontario continues to intensify, with the Ministry of Natural Resources reporting approximately 148 active wildfires across the region. Of these, 69 are classified as not under control, while only a small number are being held or fully controlled (4). The outbreak consists of multiple individual fires rather than a single wildfire, so containment varies by incident. Several large fires continue to expand near Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation), Quetico Provincial Park, Wabakimi Provincial Park, the Upsala area, and along the Ontario-Minnesota border. One of the largest active fires is Red Lake 24 (RED024), which has burned approximately 3,079 hectares and remains not under control. Other significant fires include Nipigon 45/46, which has merged into a single fire covering about 1,200 hectares, and Nipigon 50, which has reached approximately 730 hectares while remaining uncontrolled (5). Fire crews, aircraft, and additional firefighters from outside the region continue suppression efforts under extremely hot, dry, and windy conditions. Authorities remain focused on protecting communities, infrastructure, and transportation routes while awaiting forecast rainfall expected later in the week. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Mandatory evacuation orders remain in effect for multiple communities threatened by advancing wildfires. Residents of Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (Collins First Nation), Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation), and Gull Bay First Nation have been instructed to leave immediately as fires continue to threaten homes and infrastructure (6). Many evacuees have been relocated to Thunder Bay, while others are being transported to Toronto because accommodations in Thunder Bay have become limited. Emergency officials have also advised residents in Ignace, Crystal Lake, the Highway 633 area, Pickle Lake, Upsala, and portions of the Rainy River District to prepare for possible evacuations should fire conditions worsen. Several highway closures and travel restrictions remain in place across northwestern Ontario, including sections of Highway 527 and Highway 599, while Wabakimi Provincial Park has been temporarily closed because of extreme wildfire conditions. Environment Canada has also issued widespread air quality warnings across southern Ontario as dense wildfire smoke spreads through the province, with residents advised to limit outdoor activities and follow guidance from local authorities (7). How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.","

What are the name and location of the wildfires?

As of July 15, 2026, multiple wildfires continue to burn across northwestern Ontario, Canada, threatening communities and producing widespread smoke.

More than 100 active wildfires are burning across the region, with numerous fires remaining out of control due to extreme heat, dry conditions, and strong winds (1).

The fires are burning across districts including Nipigon, Sioux Lookout, Red Lake, Dryden, Fort Frances, and areas along the Ontario-Minnesota border. Significant wildfire activity is also occurring near Wabakimi Provincial Park, Quetico Provincial Park, Lake Nipigon, Lac la Croix, Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, and several remote Indigenous communities.

Several fires have expanded rapidly over recent days, with some merging into larger complexes while others have crossed the international border from Minnesota into Ontario. Provincial firefighting resources continue to focus on protecting communities, critical infrastructure, and transportation corridors as additional crews arrive to assist with suppression efforts (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires?

The cities and areas affected by the Northwestern Ontario wildfires include:

\nArmstrong
\n
Collins First Nation (Namaygoosisagagun First Nation)
Cushing Lake
Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation)
Gull Bay First Nation (Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek)
Ignace
Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation
McDowell Lake area
Pickle Lake
Quetico Provincial Park
Thunder Bay (evacuation hub)
Upsala
Wabakimi Provincial Park
Whitesand First Nation

Smoke from the Northwestern Ontario wildfires is affecting air quality across parts of Canada and the northeastern United States. The cities and areas affected by wildfire smoke include:

Alma, Quebec
\nBoston, Massachusetts
\nDuluth, Minnesota
\nGrand Marais, Minnesota
\nGreater Sudbury, Ontario
\nHancock, Michigan
\nKingston, Ontario
\nMarquette, Michigan
\nMontreal, Quebec
\nOwen Sound, Ontario
\nPeterborough, Ontario
\nSault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Springfield, Massachusetts
\nToronto, Ontario

As of July 15, 8:00 AM (local time) Toronto ranked as the 2nd most polluted major cities in the world.

$\"\"$ Toronto, Canada ranked as the 2nd most polluted major city on July 15, 2026, 8:00 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

Smoke is contributing to poor air quality across much of southern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area, while a shifting weather pattern is expected to transport dense smoke into parts of Quebec, the Great Lakes, and the northeastern United States. Areas beneath the thickest smoke plume may experience unhealthy air quality, reduced visibility, and increased health risks, particularly for sensitive groups (3).

What is the current containment status of the wildfires?

As of July 15, 2026, wildfire activity across northwestern Ontario continues to intensify, with the Ministry of Natural Resources reporting approximately 148 active wildfires across the region. Of these, 69 are classified as not under control, while only a small number are being held or fully controlled (4).

The outbreak consists of multiple individual fires rather than a single wildfire, so containment varies by incident. Several large fires continue to expand near Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation), Quetico Provincial Park, Wabakimi Provincial Park, the Upsala area, and along the Ontario-Minnesota border.

One of the largest active fires is Red Lake 24 (RED024), which has burned approximately 3,079 hectares and remains not under control. Other significant fires include Nipigon 45/46, which has merged into a single fire covering about 1,200 hectares, and Nipigon 50, which has reached approximately 730 hectares while remaining uncontrolled (5).

Fire crews, aircraft, and additional firefighters from outside the region continue suppression efforts under extremely hot, dry, and windy conditions. Authorities remain focused on protecting communities, infrastructure, and transportation routes while awaiting forecast rainfall expected later in the week.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Mandatory evacuation orders remain in effect for multiple communities threatened by advancing wildfires. Residents of Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (Collins First Nation), Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation), and Gull Bay First Nation have been instructed to leave immediately as fires continue to threaten homes and infrastructure (6).

Many evacuees have been relocated to Thunder Bay, while others are being transported to Toronto because accommodations in Thunder Bay have become limited. Emergency officials have also advised residents in Ignace, Crystal Lake, the Highway 633 area, Pickle Lake, Upsala, and portions of the Rainy River District to prepare for possible evacuations should fire conditions worsen.

Several highway closures and travel restrictions remain in place across northwestern Ontario, including sections of Highway 527 and Highway 599, while Wabakimi Provincial Park has been temporarily closed because of extreme wildfire conditions.

Environment Canada has also issued widespread air quality warnings across southern Ontario as dense wildfire smoke spreads through the province, with residents advised to limit outdoor activities and follow guidance from local authorities (7).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

","wildfire-map-spotlight-northwestern-ontario-wildfires-canada","gid://shopify/Article/641882914894","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-northwestern-ontario-wildfires-canada","2026-07-15T12:27:55Z",[14,210,211],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Northwestern Ontario wildfires, Canada",{"_66":491,"_80":492,"_82":493,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274114117710","Forest fire with dense smoke cloud above.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire6Desktop_9a11b909-8923-4a5c-bb41-4e66c9291f8a.jpg?v=1784119233",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"If a “super” El Niño is likely, will that mean a greater risk of wildfires this season?","

If a “super” El Niño is likely, will that mean a greater risk of wildfires this season?

","What is El Niño? El Niño is a regularly recurring climate pattern with global implications, historically linked to drought in East Africa and the Horn of Africa, torrential rains or drought in areas of Central America, and other extreme weather events (1). Researchers are predicting a “super” El Niño in 2026—a non-scientific term used to describe a highly intense and strong El Niño event. Potentially kicking off between the spring and autumn, it’s certain to leave global environmental challenges in its wake. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, El Niño formation has already begun in the tropical Pacific Ocean on June 11, 2026 (2). Our warming planet is already experiencing severe, long-lasting heat waves and wildfires. So, is a potentially strong or “super” El Niño year likely to lead to even more global brushfires and wildfires? What are the phases of El Niño? El Niño does not occur every year; it typically happens irregularly every two to seven years and does not follow a predictable schedule. Instead, it is part of a natural cycle known as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which includes warm (El Niño), cold (La Niña), and neutral phases. El Niño and La Niña are recurring climate patterns. Are you wildfire ready? Get your free wildfire checklist and be prepared. Download Now × Close El NiñoSpanish for \"the little boy\", El Niño is the opposite event to its “girlish” counterpart, La Niña. Rather than blowing the trade winds west, winds are weaker and the Pacific Ocean’s surface temperature is much warmer. No two La Niña and El Niño events are likely to have precisely the same impact on a given region, and event lengths can vary. For example, one rare La Niña weather event lasted three years from July 2020 until March 2023. La NiñaLa Niña, or \"the little girl\" in Spanish, strengthens the trade winds in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, pushing warmer air towards Asia. This means that colder water rises to the surface and can have several regional effects for the Americas; warmer winters and more drought in the American South, a greater chance of hurricanes forming, rains and flooding in the Pacific Northwest and Canada. In Southeast Asia and Australia, La Niña usually heralds wetter conditions (3). Winds are weaker and the ocean’s surface temperature is much warmer during an El Niño. Neutral PhaseWhat happens in a neutral phase? Normally, warm water in the Pacific Ocean is carried west by trade winds, from South America towards Asia. How El Niño might influence wildfires Although nothing is guaranteed when a climate event occurs, there are common, recurring weather impacts that are forecastable. And like La Niña, an El Niño climate event has a meaningful impact on global weather—including a noteworthy, predicted increase in wildfire risk in some regions. Australia and Southeast Asia: More smoke and bush fires Weather forecasters and Australian Meteorologists are predicting increased drought and decreased rainfall across southern and eastern Australia. In 2023, Australia experienced it’s driest 3-month period yet, from August to October, due to severe El Nino conditions. Dried out vegetation and extreme heat could create ideal conditions for an increase in bush fires during Australia’s El Nino season, with stronger impacts on Australia’s eastern coast (4). Regions in southeastern Asia and northeastern China are already experiencing drought and wildfire conditions. The early start of seasonal droughts in combination with the rapid spread of wildfires could become a harmful mixture, leading to regional air quality degradation and elevated pollutant levels (5)(6). Latin America: Flooding and drought Previous El Niño years have brought extreme weather to Latin American countries with a wide range of environmental hazards, varying from flooding to severe drought conditions. Previous El Niño years have brought extreme weather to Latin American countries with a wide range of environmental hazards. Flood patterns are more common on South America’s west coast, while the Amazon and north-east Brazil are more prone to drought. And though central Chile would normally receive more rain during an El Niño, the impact could be reversed due to climate change-related rainfall reductions. If drought occurs, Chile and the Amazon could be potential hotspots for severe wildfires in 2026. Pacific Northwest: Elevated wildfire risk The U.S. and Canadian Pacific Northwest are generally drier and warmer during El Niño years (7). If vegetation in the Pacific Northwest dries out under extreme heat, there is an increased risk of wildfires in the region. But those conditions may not be in place until later in the summer. If vegetation in the Pacific Northwest dries out under extreme heat, there is an increased risk of wildfires in the region. The U.S. National Interagency Fire Center is estimating “above-normal” temperatures and fire hazard conditions in portions of Washington, Oregon, Northern California, Texas, South Carolina, and North Carolina between July and September 2026. Some states may experience last effects until October, depending on the intensity level of El Niño (8). El Niño has also caused patterns of warmer weather and drought conditions for states across the Midwestern and Southeastern regions of the U.S., such as Utah, Nevada, Ohio, Tennessee, and Florida. Numerous wildfires occurred in Utah and Nevada starting in June, creating prolonged smoke exposure and unhealthy air quality conditions. South Asia: Monsoon disruption Changing weather patterns can impact India’s monsoon season (9). During past El Niño years, India experienced below average rainfalls and, occasionally, severe drought. Uncontrolled agricultural burns and forest fires could be intensified by dry conditions, a serious concern given that India has shortcomings in fire preparedness. In 2021, India and Nepal experienced record forest fires that were difficult to control due to limited firefighting resources (10). Southwestern and Southern U.S.: Wetter conditions likely to prevail While the Pacific Northwest may experience an increase in wildfire activity during 2026, the opposite may be the case in the American Southwest – at least for the early summer. The risk for significant wildfires is forecast to be normal to below normal. El Niño usually brings more rainfall towards the south of the United States, ranging from California to several southern states. Southern California has already experienced a significant wet season that lasted until April – the rain has reduced the amount of potential wilderness fuel for wildfires. While active wildfires are low, states with increased rainfall and moisture could experience elevated mold spores and flooding risks, especially regions with improper infrastructure and inadequate drainage. However, if the rain doesn’t materialize, excess vegetation growth could turn to kindling and the region could experience more wildfires as excess vegetation dries out. In a bit of good news, the Atlantic hurricane season will likely be weakened, with fewer predicted named storms and hurricanes likely to occur. Conclusion Understanding regularly recurring climate events and their frequently associated chain of regional weather events, such as El Niño, can help prepare us for severe, adverse health risks from wildfire smoke. Even if trends suggest there will be fewer wildfires in one region, that doesn’t protect that region’s residents from drifting smoke, even continents away.","

What is El Niño?

El Niño is a regularly recurring climate pattern with global implications, historically linked to drought in East Africa and the Horn of Africa, torrential rains or drought in areas of Central America, and other extreme weather events (1).

Researchers are predicting a “super” El Niño in 2026—a non-scientific term used to describe a highly intense and strong El Niño event. Potentially kicking off between the spring and autumn, it’s certain to leave global environmental challenges in its wake. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, El Niño formation has already begun in the tropical Pacific Ocean on June 11, 2026 (2).

Our warming planet is already experiencing severe, long-lasting heat waves and wildfires. So, is a potentially strong or “super” El Niño year likely to lead to even more global brushfires and wildfires?

What are the phases of El Niño?

El Niño does not occur every year; it typically happens irregularly every two to seven years and does not follow a predictable schedule. Instead, it is part of a natural cycle known as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which includes warm (El Niño), cold (La Niña), and neutral phases.

El Niño and La Niña are recurring climate patterns.

Are you wildfire ready?
Get your free wildfire checklist and be prepared.

Download Now

\n\n

El Niño
Spanish for \"the little boy\", El Niño is the opposite event to its “girlish” counterpart, La Niña. Rather than blowing the trade winds west, winds are weaker and the Pacific Ocean’s surface temperature is much warmer.

No two La Niña and El Niño events are likely to have precisely the same impact on a given region, and event lengths can vary. For example, one rare La Niña weather event lasted three years from July 2020 until March 2023.

La Niña
La Niña, or \"the little girl\" in Spanish, strengthens the trade winds in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, pushing warmer air towards Asia. This means that colder water rises to the surface and can have several regional effects for the Americas; warmer winters and more drought in the American South, a greater chance of hurricanes forming, rains and flooding in the Pacific Northwest and Canada.

In Southeast Asia and Australia, La Niña usually heralds wetter conditions (3).

Winds are weaker and the ocean’s surface temperature is much warmer during an El Niño.

Neutral Phase
What happens in a neutral phase? Normally, warm water in the Pacific Ocean is carried west by trade winds, from South America towards Asia.

How El Niño might influence wildfires

Although nothing is guaranteed when a climate event occurs, there are common, recurring weather impacts that are forecastable. And like La Niña, an El Niño climate event has a meaningful impact on global weather—including a noteworthy, predicted increase in wildfire risk in some regions.

Australia and Southeast Asia: More smoke and bush fires

Weather forecasters and Australian Meteorologists are predicting increased drought and decreased rainfall across southern and eastern Australia. In 2023, Australia experienced it’s driest 3-month period yet, from August to October, due to severe El Nino conditions. Dried out vegetation and extreme heat could create ideal conditions for an increase in bush fires during Australia’s El Nino season, with stronger impacts on Australia’s eastern coast (4).

Regions in southeastern Asia and northeastern China are already experiencing drought and wildfire conditions. The early start of seasonal droughts in combination with the rapid spread of wildfires could become a harmful mixture, leading to regional air quality degradation and elevated pollutant levels (5)(6).

Latin America: Flooding and drought

Previous El Niño years have brought extreme weather to Latin American countries with a wide range of environmental hazards, varying from flooding to severe drought conditions.

Previous El Niño years have brought extreme weather to Latin American countries with a wide range of environmental hazards.

Flood patterns are more common on South America’s west coast, while the Amazon and north-east Brazil are more prone to drought. And though central Chile would normally receive more rain during an El Niño, the impact could be reversed due to climate change-related rainfall reductions.

If drought occurs, Chile and the Amazon could be potential hotspots for severe wildfires in 2026.

Pacific Northwest: Elevated wildfire risk

The U.S. and Canadian Pacific Northwest are generally drier and warmer during El Niño years (7). If vegetation in the Pacific Northwest dries out under extreme heat, there is an increased risk of wildfires in the region. But those conditions may not be in place until later in the summer.

If vegetation in the Pacific Northwest dries out under extreme heat, there is an increased risk of wildfires in the region.

The U.S. National Interagency Fire Center is estimating “above-normal” temperatures and fire hazard conditions in portions of Washington, Oregon, Northern California, Texas, South Carolina, and North Carolina between July and September 2026. Some states may experience last effects until October, depending on the intensity level of El Niño (8).

El Niño has also caused patterns of warmer weather and drought conditions for states across the Midwestern and Southeastern regions of the U.S., such as Utah, Nevada, Ohio, Tennessee, and Florida. Numerous wildfires occurred in Utah and Nevada starting in June, creating prolonged smoke exposure and unhealthy air quality conditions.

South Asia: Monsoon disruption

Changing weather patterns can impact India’s monsoon season (9). During past El Niño years, India experienced below average rainfalls and, occasionally, severe drought.

Uncontrolled agricultural burns and forest fires could be intensified by dry conditions, a serious concern given that India has shortcomings in fire preparedness. In 2021, India and Nepal experienced record forest fires that were difficult to control due to limited firefighting resources (10).

Southwestern and Southern U.S.: Wetter conditions likely to prevail

While the Pacific Northwest may experience an increase in wildfire activity during 2026, the opposite may be the case in the American Southwest – at least for the early summer. The risk for significant wildfires is forecast to be normal to below normal.

El Niño usually brings more rainfall towards the south of the United States, ranging from California to several southern states. Southern California has already experienced a significant wet season that lasted until April – the rain has reduced the amount of potential wilderness fuel for wildfires.

While active wildfires are low, states with increased rainfall and moisture could experience elevated mold spores and flooding risks, especially regions with improper infrastructure and inadequate drainage.

However, if the rain doesn’t materialize, excess vegetation growth could turn to kindling and the region could experience more wildfires as excess vegetation dries out.

In a bit of good news, the Atlantic hurricane season will likely be weakened, with fewer predicted named storms and hurricanes likely to occur.

Conclusion

Understanding regularly recurring climate events and their frequently associated chain of regional weather events, such as El Niño, can help prepare us for severe, adverse health risks from wildfire smoke. Even if trends suggest there will be fewer wildfires in one region, that doesn’t protect that region’s residents from drifting smoke, even continents away.

","how-does-el-nino-cause-wildfires","gid://shopify/Article/564873691214","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/how-does-el-nino-cause-wildfires","2026-07-15T15:00:00Z",[14,210,211],"How does El Niño cause wildfires?",{"_66":507,"_80":508,"_82":509,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274360270926","Aerial view of wildfire flames and smoke in a dry forest.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Article_ElNinoWildfire_Desk_dd767a11-c2e7-458a-800c-82ed73d4bde0.jpg?v=1785252158",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"New York City is experiencing elevated air pollution levels. Learn more about affected regions, underlying causes, and the expected outlook.","

New York City is experiencing elevated air pollution levels. Learn more about affected regions, underlying causes, and the expected outlook.

","Is the air quality good in New York? The air quality in most of New York State on Monday, July 15, 2026 is in the ranges of “unhealthy for sensitive groups” to “unhealthy”. Upstate New York is expected to be “unhealthy,” poor air quality that poses a health threat to all residents. In Lower Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island the air quality is expected to be “unhealthy for sensitive groups” The areas of Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse had unhealthy air quality. Canadian wildfires have prompted New York at one point on July 15 to be ranked the third most polluted major city in the world. Toronto, Canada was at one point ranked the most polluted global major city. Air quality map of New York City, as of 7:00 PM (local time) on July 15, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which other cities or areas are affected by wildfire smoke? The cities and areas affected by wildfire smoke include: Toronto, Ontario Waterloo, Ontario Owen Sound, Ontario Hamilton, Ontario Guelph, Ontario Brampton, Ontario Burlington, Ontario London, Ontario Uxbridge, Ontario East York, Ontario Chicago, Illinois Marquette, Michigan Duluth, Minnesota Minneapolis, Minnesota Detroit, Michigan Wausau, Wisconsin Green Bay, Wisconsin Boston, Massachusetts Providence, Rhode Island In many cities across the U.S. states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and the upper panhandle of Michigan, AQI levels have soared past 400, with Marquette, Michigan reaching an AQI of 902. Smoke is contributing to poor air quality across much of southern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area, while a shifting weather pattern is expected to transport dense smoke into large parts of eastern Canada, the Great Lakes, the upper Midwest, and the northeastern United States. Areas beneath the thickest smoke plume may experience unhealthy air quality, reduced visibility, and increased health risks, particularly for sensitive groups. What is causing poor air quality in New York? New York’s poor air quality is primarily caused by smoke from wildfires in Ontario, Canada. More than 800 wildfires are actively burning across Canada, with numerous with little to no containment. Several fires have expanded rapidly over recent days, with some merging into larger complexes while others have crossed the international border from Minnesota into Ontario. Provincial firefighting resources continue to focus on protecting communities, critical infrastructure, and transportation corridors as additional crews arrive to assist with suppression efforts. These fires have prompted New York at one point on July 15 to be ranked the third most polluted major city in the world. Toronto, Canada was at one point ranked the most polluted global major city. Winds are expected to bring an expansive plume of wildfire smoke into the state, resulting in elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) spreading across Upstate New York through the remainder of the week. The chemical compounds found in wildfire smoke are also expected to increase ozone production downstate, as extreme heat continues to affect the northeastern United States. Is there an air quality alert in New York? There is a state-wide air quality alert in place for New York. Several alerts and measures have been put in place to address the situation. Explore high-performance air purifiers SHOP NOW How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

\nIs the air quality good in New York? \n

The air quality in most of New York State on Monday, July 15, 2026 is in the ranges of “unhealthy for sensitive groups” to “unhealthy”. Upstate New York is expected to be “unhealthy,” poor air quality that poses a health threat to all residents. In Lower Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island the air quality is expected to be “unhealthy for sensitive groups”

The areas of Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse  had unhealthy air quality. Canadian wildfires have prompted New York at one point on July 15 to be ranked the third most polluted major city in the world. Toronto, Canada was at one point ranked the most polluted global major city.

$\"\"$

Air quality map of New York City, as of 7:00 PM (local time) on July 15, 2026. Source: IQAir.

\nWhich other cities or areas are affected by wildfire smoke? \n

The cities and areas affected by wildfire smoke include:

Toronto, Ontario
\nWaterloo, Ontario
\nOwen Sound, Ontario
\nHamilton, Ontario
\nGuelph, Ontario
\nBrampton, Ontario
\nBurlington, Ontario
\nLondon, Ontario
\nUxbridge, Ontario
\nEast York, Ontario
\nChicago, Illinois
\nMarquette, Michigan
\nDuluth, Minnesota
\nMinneapolis, Minnesota
\nDetroit, Michigan
\nWausau, Wisconsin
\nGreen Bay, Wisconsin
\nBoston, Massachusetts
\nProvidence, Rhode Island

In many cities across the U.S. states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and the upper panhandle of Michigan, AQI levels have soared past 400, with Marquette, Michigan reaching an AQI of 902.

Smoke is contributing to poor air quality across much of southern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area, while a shifting weather pattern is expected to transport dense smoke into large parts of eastern Canada, the Great Lakes, the upper Midwest, and the northeastern United States. Areas beneath the thickest smoke plume may experience unhealthy air quality, reduced visibility, and increased health risks, particularly for sensitive groups.

\nWhat is causing poor air quality in New York? \n

New York’s poor air quality is primarily caused by smoke from wildfires in Ontario, Canada. More than 800 wildfires are actively burning across Canada, with numerous with little to no containment. Several fires have expanded rapidly over recent days, with some merging into larger complexes while others have crossed the international border from Minnesota into Ontario. Provincial firefighting resources continue to focus on protecting communities, critical infrastructure, and transportation corridors as additional crews arrive to assist with suppression efforts.

These fires have prompted New York at one point on July 15 to be ranked the third most polluted major city in the world. Toronto, Canada was at one point ranked the most polluted global major city.

Winds are expected to bring an expansive plume of wildfire smoke into the state, resulting in elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) spreading across Upstate New York through the remainder of the week. The chemical compounds found in wildfire smoke are also expected to increase ozone production downstate, as extreme heat continues to affect the northeastern United States.

\nIs there an air quality alert in New York? \n

There is a state-wide air quality alert in place for New York. Several alerts and measures have been put in place to address the situation.

Explore high-performance air purifiers

SHOP NOW

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","new-york-air-quality-alert-canadian-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/641891729486","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/new-york-air-quality-alert-canadian-wildfire-smoke","2026-07-15T23:34:02Z",[14,211],"New York Air Quality Alert: Canadian Wildfire Smoke",{"_66":523,"_80":-5,"_82":524,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274125520974","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/NewYorkCityDesktop_b98c94b3-acdd-4bf0-a450-7c4b7be906c2.jpg?v=1784158445",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Find out more about the South Texas flash flooding emergency, including affected communities, evacuation orders, and the latest flood conditions.","

Find out more about the South Texas flash flooding emergency, including affected communities, evacuation orders, and the latest flood conditions.

","What is the location of the flooding? As of July 16, 2026, catastrophic flash flooding is affecting South Texas, primarily across the Texas Hill Country and surrounding regions. The flooding is centered on the Guadalupe River basin, where rapidly rising water levels have prompted multiple Flash Flood Emergencies. The event follows days of torrential rainfall and comes nearly one year after the deadly July 2025 Texas Hill Country floods (1). The most severely affected areas include the Guadalupe River between Center Point and Bergheim, the Pedernales River, the Nueces River Basin, the Frio River Basin, the Sabinal River, and several creeks and tributaries across South Central Texas. Rivers and streams have risen rapidly, producing dangerous flooding across roads, neighborhoods, campgrounds, and low-lying communities (2). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? The flooding is impacting numerous communities across South Texas. The following cities and communities have been directly affected: Bandera Bergheim Boerne Brackettville Camp Wood Center Point Comfort Concan Del Rio Fredericksburg Hondo Hunt Ingram Johnson City Kerrville Knippa Lakehills Leakey Medina Montell Sabinal San Antonio metropolitan area Stonewall Utopia Uvalde Uvalde Estates Waring Flood impacts also extend across portions of Blanco, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Kinney, Maverick, Medina, Real, Val Verde, and Zavala counties, with additional flooding occurring along the Guadalupe, Nueces, Frio, Pedernales, Sabinal, and Devils rivers (3). What is the current containment status of the flooding? As of July 16, 2026, the flooding remains active and is not contained. Additional rounds of heavy rainfall continue to move across South Texas, causing rivers and creeks to rise rapidly and producing new flash flooding. The National Weather Service has issued multiple Flash Flood Emergencies and Flash Flood Warnings across the region. Emergency crews continue conducting swift water rescues, monitoring river gauges, closing flooded roads, and supporting affected communities. Floodwaters remain dangerous, particularly along the Guadalupe River, Pedernales River, Nueces River Basin, and Frio River Basin (4). Texas officials have deployed more than 1,300 emergency personnel and hundreds of emergency response vehicles. A disaster declaration covering dozens of counties remains in effect while rescue operations continue. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Numerous emergency alerts and evacuation measures remain in effect across South Texas. Flash Flood Emergencies have been issued for portions of the Guadalupe River, Pedernales River, Uvalde County, Hunt, and Kerrville. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in parts of Uvalde as floodwaters continue rising. Kerrville officials have urged residents to shelter at the highest level of their homes while floodwaters remain dangerous. A shelter-in-place order has been issued for Kerrville as emergency operations continue. Emergency shelters have opened in flood-affected communities, particularly around Uvalde, while rescue operations continue. The National Weather Service continues advising residents to avoid flooded roads, move to higher ground when instructed, and follow the \"Turn Around, Don't Drown\" safety guidance (5). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of July 16, 2026, catastrophic flash flooding is affecting South Texas, primarily across the Texas Hill Country and surrounding regions. The flooding is centered on the Guadalupe River basin, where rapidly rising water levels have prompted multiple Flash Flood Emergencies.

The event follows days of torrential rainfall and comes nearly one year after the deadly July 2025 Texas Hill Country floods (1).

The most severely affected areas include the Guadalupe River between Center Point and Bergheim, the Pedernales River, the Nueces River Basin, the Frio River Basin, the Sabinal River, and several creeks and tributaries across South Central Texas. Rivers and streams have risen rapidly, producing dangerous flooding across roads, neighborhoods, campgrounds, and low-lying communities (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The flooding is impacting numerous communities across South Texas. The following cities and communities have been directly affected:

Bandera
Bergheim
Boerne
Brackettville
Camp Wood
Center Point
Comfort
Concan
Del Rio
Fredericksburg
Hondo
Hunt
Ingram
Johnson City
Kerrville
Knippa
Lakehills
Leakey
Medina
Montell
Sabinal
\nSan Antonio metropolitan area
Stonewall
Utopia
Uvalde
Uvalde Estates
Waring

Flood impacts also extend across portions of Blanco, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Kinney, Maverick, Medina, Real, Val Verde, and Zavala counties, with additional flooding occurring along the Guadalupe, Nueces, Frio, Pedernales, Sabinal, and Devils rivers (3).

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of July 16, 2026, the flooding remains active and is not contained. Additional rounds of heavy rainfall continue to move across South Texas, causing rivers and creeks to rise rapidly and producing new flash flooding.

The National Weather Service has issued multiple Flash Flood Emergencies and Flash Flood Warnings across the region. Emergency crews continue conducting swift water rescues, monitoring river gauges, closing flooded roads, and supporting affected communities. Floodwaters remain dangerous, particularly along the Guadalupe River, Pedernales River, Nueces River Basin, and Frio River Basin (4).

Texas officials have deployed more than 1,300 emergency personnel and hundreds of emergency response vehicles. A disaster declaration covering dozens of counties remains in effect while rescue operations continue.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Numerous emergency alerts and evacuation measures remain in effect across South Texas.

Flash Flood Emergencies have been issued for portions of the Guadalupe River, Pedernales River, Uvalde County, Hunt, and Kerrville.
\n
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in parts of Uvalde as floodwaters continue rising.
Kerrville officials have urged residents to shelter at the highest level of their homes while floodwaters remain dangerous. A shelter-in-place order has been issued for Kerrville as emergency operations continue.
Emergency shelters have opened in flood-affected communities, particularly around Uvalde, while rescue operations continue.
\n

The National Weather Service continues advising residents to avoid flooded roads, move to higher ground when instructed, and follow the \"Turn Around, Don't Drown\" safety guidance (5).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-south-texas-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/641896022094","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-south-texas-flooding","2026-07-16T15:04:08Z",[14,210,431],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: South Texas Flooding",{"_66":538,"_80":539,"_82":540,"_84":141,"_86":142},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274147016782","Flooded forest.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Flooding6Desktop_e1cf5269-f7d2-43bc-9a4e-fa64f6b4a77f.jpg?v=1784214971",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Wildfire smoke from Minnesota and Canada is driving hazardous air quality across the Midwest and Northeast US, with AQI above 150 in major cities. Learn more about affected areas and safety measures.","

Wildfire smoke from Minnesota and Canada is driving hazardous air quality across the Midwest and Northeast US, with AQI above 150 in major cities. Learn more about affected areas and safety measures.

","Is the air quality good in the Midwest and Northeast US? Since July 15, 2026, air quality across a broad swath of the Midwest and Northeast United States has deteriorated sharply, with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant driven by dense wildfire smoke descending to ground level (1). By 1:00 AM (Eastern Standard Time, UTC-5) on July 17, many urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 500, ranging from unhealthy to hazardous levels and prompting health warnings. Residents are strongly advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors sealed, wear a mask if going outside is unavoidable, and run air purifiers indoors. Air quality map of the Midwest and Northeast US, as of 1:00 AM (EST) on July 17, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in the Midwest and Northeast US? As of July 17, 2026, the most severely impacted cities include: Chicago Cleveland Detroit Milwaukee Minneapolis New York Philadelphia Pittsburgh Washington D.C. Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels, see the United States air quality map. Chicago, Detroit, New York and Washington D.C. ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 1:00 AM (EST) on July 17, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in the Midwest and Northeast US? Air quality is expected to improve gradually by the weekend as shifting winds help disperse wildfire smoke (2). However, periodic smoke episodes may continue over the next few days, with additional plumes possible as long as wildfires remain active in Minnesota and Canada (3). What is causing poor air quality in the Midwest and Northeast US? Poor air quality is primarily being caused by wildfire smoke from active fires in northeastern Minnesota and Ontario, Canada (4). Hot, dry, and drought-stricken conditions have intensified the wildfire season, while a heat dome over the central U.S. is trapping smoke near the ground and carrying it southeastward, resulting in elevated PM2.5 levels across the Midwest and Northeast (5). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in the Midwest and Northeast US?

Since July 15, 2026, air quality across a broad swath of the Midwest and Northeast United States has deteriorated sharply, with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant driven by dense wildfire smoke descending to ground level (1).

By 1:00 AM (Eastern Standard Time, UTC-5) on July 17, many urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 500, ranging from unhealthy to hazardous levels and prompting health warnings.

Residents are strongly advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors sealed, wear a mask if going outside is unavoidable, and run air purifiers indoors.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of the Midwest and Northeast US, as of 1:00 AM (EST) on July 17, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in the Midwest and Northeast US?

As of July 17, 2026, the most severely impacted cities include:

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels, see the United States air quality map.

$\"\"$ Chicago, Detroit, New York and Washington D.C. ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 1:00 AM (EST) on July 17, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in the Midwest and Northeast US?

Air quality is expected to improve gradually by the weekend as shifting winds help disperse wildfire smoke (2).

However, periodic smoke episodes may continue over the next few days, with additional plumes possible as long as wildfires remain active in Minnesota and Canada (3).

What is causing poor air quality in the Midwest and Northeast US?

Poor air quality is primarily being caused by wildfire smoke from active fires in northeastern Minnesota and Ontario, Canada (4).

Hot, dry, and drought-stricken conditions have intensified the wildfire season, while a heat dome over the central U.S. is trapping smoke near the ground and carrying it southeastward, resulting in elevated PM2.5 levels across the Midwest and Northeast (5).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","midwest-and-northeast-us-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/641893859406","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/midwest-and-northeast-us-air-quality-alert","2026-07-17T06:25:22Z",[14,210,211],"Midwest and Northeast US Air Quality Alert",{"_66":554,"_80":-5,"_82":555,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/274160517198","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/WashingtonDCDesktop_e253ea52-ac03-4f51-a973-b780604e4600.jpg?v=1784269547",{"_92":93},{"_64":91},"Find out more about the Aspen Acres Fire in southern Colorado, including affected communities, containment status, and current evacuation orders.","

Find out more about the Aspen Acres Fire in southern Colorado, including affected communities, containment status, and current evacuation orders.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of July 18, 2026, the Aspen Acres Fire is burning across southern Colorado, primarily affecting the Custer, Pueblo, Fremont, and Huerfano regions. The fire is centered near the 100 Block of Silvercliffe Drive in Rye and continues to burn across portions of the Pike-San Isabel National Forest and surrounding communities (1). Fire activity remains concentrated along the Colorado Highway 165 corridor between Lake Isabel and Colorado City, with ongoing suppression efforts protecting nearby communities and critical infrastructure. Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Aspen Acres Fire include: Apache City area Beulah Bishops Castle Coal Creek Colorado City Galbeth Creek Lake Isabel Lazy Acres Locke Mountain subdivision Newlin Ridge subdivision Red Creek Rockvale Rye San Isabel Table Mountain area Wales Canyon Wetmore What is the current containment status of the wildfire? As of July 18, 2026, the Aspen Acres Fire has burned approximately 100,223.5 acres and is 61% contained. Firefighters continue strengthening containment lines, extinguishing hot spots, conducting aerial reconnaissance with drones, and protecting communities along the western and northern portions of the fire. Crews remain focused on areas near North Muddy Creek, Saint Charles Peak, San Isabel, and Rye, where active fire behavior remains possible under hot, dry, and breezy weather conditions. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect across portions of Huerfano, Pueblo, Custer, and Fremont counties as firefighting operations continue. Level 3 (Go) evacuation orders remain active for multiple zones in Huerfano, Pueblo, and Custer counties. Level 2 (Set) evacuation warnings remain in place for additional zones in Huerfano, Pueblo, and Custer counties, while Level 1 (Ready) alerts continue for several areas of Fremont, Custer, and Huerfano counties. Authorities have lifted pre-evacuation status for the Beulah community, allowing residents to return home. However, non-residents are asked to avoid entering the area while recovery efforts continue. Residents in evacuation areas should continue monitoring official county emergency alerts and follow instructions from local emergency management agencies. Emergency shelters remain available for displaced residents, including Lange Hall in Westcliffe, Pathfinder Park in Florence, and the Pueblo County Recreation Center in Pueblo. Large animals can be relocated to the Colorado State Fairgrounds in Pueblo. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of July 18, 2026, this fire is 61% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of July 18, 2026, the Aspen Acres Fire is burning across southern Colorado, primarily affecting the Custer, Pueblo, Fremont, and Huerfano regions. The fire is centered near the 100 Block of Silvercliffe Drive in Rye and continues to burn across portions of the Pike-San Isabel National Forest and surrounding communities (1).

Fire activity remains concentrated along the Colorado Highway 165 corridor between Lake Isabel and Colorado City, with ongoing suppression efforts protecting nearby communities and critical infrastructure.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Aspen Acres Fire include:

Apache City area
Beulah
Bishops Castle
Coal Creek
Colorado City
Galbeth Creek
Lake Isabel
Lazy Acres
Locke Mountain subdivision
Newlin Ridge subdivision
Red Creek
Rockvale
Rye
San Isabel
Table Mountain area
Wales Canyon
Wetmore

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of July 18, 2026, the Aspen Acres Fire has burned approximately 100,223.5 acres and is 61% contained.

Firefighters continue strengthening containment lines, extinguishing hot spots, conducting aerial reconnaissance with drones, and protecting communities along the western and northern portions of the fire. Crews remain focused on areas near North Muddy Creek, Saint Charles Peak, San Isabel, and Rye, where active fire behavior remains possible under hot, dry, and breezy weather conditions.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect across portions of Huerfano, Pueblo, Custer, and Fremont counties as firefighting operations continue.

Level 3 (Go) evacuation orders remain active for multiple zones in Huerfano, Pueblo, and Custer counties. Level 2 (Set) evacuation warnings remain in place for additional zones in Huerfano, Pueblo, and Custer counties, while Level 1 (Ready) alerts continue for several areas of Fremont, Custer, and Huerfano counties.

Authorities have lifted pre-evacuation status for the Beulah community, allowing residents to return home. However, non-residents are asked to avoid entering the area while recovery efforts continue. Residents in evacuation areas should continue monitoring official county emergency alerts and follow instructions from local emergency management agencies.

Emergency shelters remain available for displaced residents, including Lange Hall in Westcliffe, Pathfinder Park in Florence, and the Pueblo County Recreation Center in Pueblo. Large animals can be relocated to the Colorado State Fairgrounds in Pueblo.

\n\n

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of July 18, 2026, this fire is 61% contained.

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