Austin Air Quality Reaches Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups Level on February 19

Current Air Quality

On February 19, 2026, the reporting area of Austin, TX, recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 117 for fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is categorized as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” Other pollutants measured in the area include Ozone (O3) with an AQI of 38 (Good) and PM10 with an AQI of 54 (Moderate). PM2.5 is the primary pollutant of concern for this period.

What This Means

An AQI level of 117 falls into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. This means that while the general public is unlikely to be affected, members of sensitive groups may experience health effects due to the concentration of fine particulate matter in the air.

Who Should Take Precautions

Groups at higher risk include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teenagers. These individuals are more sensitive to the effects of particle pollution and should monitor their activity levels accordingly.

What You Should Do

Members of sensitive groups are advised to choose less strenuous activities, shorten the amount of time they are active outdoors, and wait until air quality improves before performing heavy outdoor exertion. People with asthma should keep quick-relief medicine handy. The general public can continue normal outdoor activities.

Source

Data provided by EPA AirNow.