Air Quality Alert: Pittsburgh, PA Reaches Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups Level

Current Air Quality

In the Pittsburgh, PA reporting area, air quality observations for February 17, 2026, indicate that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is the primary pollutant of concern. The PM2.5 reading reached an AQI of 117, which falls into the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category. Additionally, Ozone (O3) was measured at an AQI of 40, which is categorized as Good.

What This Means

An AQI level of 117 means that air quality is unhealthy for members of sensitive groups. While the general public is not likely to be affected at this level, individuals with pre-existing health conditions may experience health effects from breathing the air.

Who Should Take Precautions

The following groups are at increased risk from PM2.5 at this level:

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

What You Should Do

Members of sensitive groups should take the following precautions:

• Reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.
• Take more breaks during outdoor activities.
• Watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.
• Plan outdoor activities for times when air quality is better.

Source

Data provided by EPA AirNow.