Air Quality Alert: Unhealthy Conditions Reported in El Paso, TX
On February 20, 2026, air quality in El Paso, TX reached Unhealthy levels with a peak AQI of 182, primarily driven by PM10 concentrations.
Current Air Quality
In El Paso, TX, the air quality was observed at a peak AQI of 182 on February 20, 2026. The primary pollutant of concern is PM10, which is currently in the “Unhealthy” category. Additional measurements for the area include PM2.5 at an AQI of 128 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups) and Ozone (O3) at an AQI of 41 (Good).
What This Means
An AQI level of 182 is classified as “Unhealthy” by the EPA. At this level, the air quality is considered poor enough that members of the general public may begin to experience health effects, while members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.
Who Should Take Precautions
While the entire 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 be particularly mindful of their activity levels during this period.
What You Should Do
To protect your health during “Unhealthy” conditions, the following guidance is recommended:
- For the general public: Reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion. Consider taking more breaks and engaging in less intense outdoor activities.
- For sensitive groups: Avoid prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion. It is recommended to move activities indoors or reschedule them to a time when air quality has improved.
Source
Data provided by EPA AirNow.
Source: EPA Official Notice
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