Air Quality Alert: Houston-Galveston-Brazoria Reaches Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups Level

Current Air Quality

As of February 23, 2026, the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria reporting area in Texas is experiencing elevated air pollution levels. The primary pollutant of concern is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which has reached an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 105, placing it in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. Additionally, ozone (O3) levels were measured at an AQI of 41, which is considered “Good.”

What This Means

An AQI level of 105 for PM2.5 indicates that air quality is becoming unhealthy for certain members of the population. While the general public is less likely to be affected, fine particulate matter at this concentration can pose health risks to individuals with specific sensitivities.

Who Should Take Precautions

The “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category specifically impacts:

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

What You Should Do

Members of sensitive groups should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. It is advisable to take more breaks and do less intense activities. Watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. The general public is not expected to be affected at this AQI level.

Source

Data provided by EPA AirNow.