Air Quality Index in Houston, TX

In Houston, common air pollutants include ozone, which builds up on hot, sunny days, and tiny particles from cars, factories, and construction that can make breathing harder. Nitrogen dioxide from traffic and sulfur dioxide from industry also add to pollution, especially in busy areas. These pollutants change with the weather, traffic, and local industry, causing Houston’s air quality to vary throughout the year.

The AQI in Houston is usually the worst during the summer months, especially from May to September. High temperatures and sunlight increase ozone levels, which can make air quality worse. Pollution is typically higher in the afternoons and on hot, still days when there is less wind to disperse the pollutants.

Yes, some areas in Houston tend to have better air quality. Neighborhoods that are farther from busy roads, industrial zones, and highways generally experience cleaner air. For example, areas with more green space, like Memorial Park or the outskirts of the city, tend to have better air quality due to the natural filtering effect of trees and plants. Additionally, neighborhoods that are farther from the downtown area and heavy industrial zones, such as parts of West Houston or The Woodlands, may also experience cleaner air.