Here’s a visualized sample of how the air quality trends looked like recently.
Here’s the air quality data you can derive insights from.
You can easily access real-time air quality data for Seattle from Ambee. All you have to do is sign up for our API dashboard and get started with the free trial. If you want a simpler way to check the data, you can also explore our air quality map for Seattle or download the Ambee app.
The highest AQI recorded in Seattle was 260 on August 15, 2018, during a wildfire in British Columbia, Canada. In October 2022, Seattle ranked as the worst city worldwide for air quality and pollution. Its air quality index reached over 240, which is defined as “very unhealthy” for all groups.
When the Air Quality Index (AQI) is very high, it's crucial to prioritize your health. Before venturing outdoors, check local air quality forecasts regularly. Take necessary precautions such as wearing a mask, carrying preventive medicine and anti-allergen tissues, keeping your asthma/COPD kit readily available, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities.
Seattle’s worst air quality period typically ranges from July through September. This is due to the increased risk of wildfires in the region, as well as weather conditions that can trap pollutants close to the ground. However, due to rising climate change, the wildfire season is expanding, and so is the duration of poor air quality. Seattle faced its worst air quality level recently in October 2022, showcasing that the trend is now shifting significantly.
A hotter, drier climate and the failure to plan and execute prescribed burns cause air quality to remain poor in Seattle. Multiple raging wildfires have contributed to AQ levels remaining poor over the years. Various factors, including industrial emissions, transportation emissions, and weather conditions, also cause poor air quality in Seattle. Checking the air quality index for Seattle is important at all times to avoid health issues.
Seattle typically has good to moderate air quality throughout the year, with occasional periods of poor air quality due to wildfires and other environmental factors. However, Seattle has been named one of the worst cities for air quality in recent years, and the average AQ index levels have exceeded moderate. For people to stay healthy and safe, the average AQ levels should be below 50 on the index scale.
.svg){kind=icon}
.svg){kind=icon}
