Air Quality Alert: Atlanta, GA Reaches Unhealthy Levels (AQI 170)
The air quality in Atlanta, GA has reached an Unhealthy level today, March 9, 2026, with a primary AQI of 170 due to fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
Current Air Quality
As of March 9, 2026, the air quality in the Atlanta, GA reporting area is classified as Unhealthy. The primary pollutant of concern is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which has reached an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 170. Other measured pollutants in the area include Ozone (O3) with an AQI of 38 (Good) and PM10 with an AQI of 11 (Good).
What This Means
An AQI of 170 falls within the “Unhealthy” category. This indicates that the air quality is reaching levels where the general public may begin to experience health effects. Members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects during this period.
Who Should Take Precautions
While everyone should be aware of the current conditions, certain groups are at higher risk. This includes people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teenagers. These individuals should take extra care to monitor their symptoms and limit outdoor exposure.
What You Should Do
To minimize health risks, everyone should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. Sensitive groups should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion entirely and consider moving activities indoors or rescheduling them for a time when air quality has improved.
Source
Data provided by EPA AirNow.
Source: EPA Official Notice