Air Quality Alert: El Paso, TX Reaches Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups Level (AQI 139)

Current Air Quality

As of February 16, 2026, the reporting area of El Paso, TX is experiencing air quality levels categorized as Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. The primary pollutant of concern is PM10, which has reached an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 139. Other measured pollutants include PM2.5 with an AQI of 72 (Moderate) and Ozone (O3) with an AQI of 35 (Good).

What This Means

An AQI level of 139 falls into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. According to standard EPA guidance, this indicates that air quality is unhealthy for members of sensitive groups, though the general public is less likely to be affected by these conditions.

Who Should Take Precautions

Groups at increased risk from this level of particle pollution (PM10) include:

• People with heart or lung disease
• Older adults
• Children and teenagers

What You Should Do

Members of sensitive groups should take the following precautions to protect their health:

• Reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.
• Take more breaks during outdoor activities.
• Watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.

The general public is less likely to be affected and may continue normal outdoor activities.

Source

Data provided by EPA AirNow.