Texas Current AQI Today: 12 Cities Ranked (Moderate)
Real-time air quality data for 12 cities in Texas. Average AQI across the state is currently 52 (Moderate).
Cities in Texas
Sorted by air quality (best first)
About Air Quality in Texas
Texas has diverse air quality conditions ranging from excellent in rural areas to challenging in major metropolitan areas. The state's large industrial sector, including petrochemical facilities along the Gulf Coast, combined with urban vehicle emissions creates pollution challenges. However, Texas's generally good air circulation helps disperse pollutants in many areas.
We monitor air quality across 12 major cities in Texas using real-time data from the EPA's AirNow network. The best air quality is currently in Laredo with an AQI of 38. The area requiring most attention is Houston with an AQI of 67.
Primary Pollution Sources in Texas
- Oil and gas operations and refineries
- Petrochemical manufacturing along the Gulf Coast
- Vehicle emissions in major metro areas
- Power plant emissions
- Dust from construction and agriculture
- Cross-border pollution from Mexico
Seasonal Air Quality Patterns
Summer brings the highest ozone levels in Texas due to intense heat and sunlight. Spring can see elevated dust levels, and occasional dust storms from the west. Hurricane season can temporarily improve air quality as storms clear pollutants, but flooding can create other air quality concerns. Winter generally has better air quality across the state.
Health Impacts
Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth areas experience the most significant air quality-related health impacts. Communities near industrial facilities, particularly in the Houston Ship Channel area, face elevated exposure to industrial emissions. Texas heat can exacerbate health effects during high ozone days.
Recommendations for Texas Residents
Texans in urban areas should limit outdoor exertion during afternoon hours when ozone peaks in summer. Industrial area residents should monitor local air quality alerts. Use your car's air recirculation when driving near industrial zones. Consider indoor exercise facilities during poor air quality days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Air Quality
What is the current air quality in Texas?
The average Air Quality Index across 12 monitored cities in Texas is currently 52, which is considered moderate. 6 cities currently have good air quality (AQI 0-50).
Which city in Texas has the best air quality?
Currently, Laredo has the best air quality in Texas with an AQI of 38 (Good). Air quality rankings can change throughout the day based on weather conditions, traffic patterns, and other factors.
Is it safe to exercise outdoors in Texas?
With a state average AQI of 52, outdoor exercise is generally safe but sensitive individuals should monitor their symptoms. Check your local city's AQI before strenuous outdoor activities.
How can I protect myself from poor air quality in Texas?
To protect yourself from air pollution: monitor AQI forecasts daily, limit outdoor activities when AQI exceeds 100, use air conditioning or air purifiers with HEPA filters indoors, consider wearing N95 masks during very poor air quality, and keep windows closed when pollution levels are elevated. Sensitive groups should take extra precautions.