Air Quality Alert: Indianapolis, IN Reaches Unhealthy Levels for PM2.5

Current Air Quality

On February 18, 2026, the air quality in the Indianapolis, IN reporting area reached an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 158. The primary pollutant of concern is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is currently in the “Unhealthy” category. Other pollutants measured include PM10 with an AQI of 59 (Moderate) and Ozone (O3) with an AQI of 16 (Good).

What This Means

An AQI level of 158 is classified as “Unhealthy” according to EPA standards. At this level, members of the general public may begin to experience health effects, and members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.

Who Should Take Precautions

While the general population may be affected, specific 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 health and limit exposure to outdoor air.

What You Should Do

To reduce health risks, everyone should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. Members of sensitive groups should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion and consider moving activities indoors or rescheduling them to a time when air quality is better.

Source

Data provided by EPA AirNow.