Air Quality Index in Boston, MA

Boston, MA

Boston, historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, prestigious universities, and vibrant waterfront, typically enjoys good air quality due to its coastal location and proactive environmental policies. The city's air quality index (AQI) is often within healthy ranges, but occasional spikes can occur due to vehicle emissions, industrial activities, or weather patterns like temperature inversions. Monitoring AQI is especially important during hot summer months when ozone levels may rise.

Air Quality Index

January 23, 2025

Fair

Air quality is acceptable, but some individuals, particularly those unusually sensitive to air pollution, may experience minor health effects.

NO₂

PM_2.5

M₁₀

O₃

Air Quality Index

January 24, 2025

Fair

Air quality is acceptable, but some individuals, particularly those unusually sensitive to air pollution, may experience minor health effects.

NO₂

PM_2.5

M₁₀

O₃

Air Quality Index

January 25, 2025

Good

Air quality is ideal, with minimal or no risk to health.

NO₂

PM_2.5

M₁₀

O₃

Air Quality Index

January 26, 2025

Fair

Air quality is acceptable, but some individuals, particularly those unusually sensitive to air pollution, may experience minor health effects.

NO₂

PM_2.5

M₁₀

O₃

Air Quality Index

January 27, 2025

Fair

Air quality is acceptable, but some individuals, particularly those unusually sensitive to air pollution, may experience minor health effects.

NO₂

PM_2.5

M₁₀

O₃

Air Quality Index

January 28, 2025

Fair

Air quality is acceptable, but some individuals, particularly those unusually sensitive to air pollution, may experience minor health effects.

NO₂

PM_2.5

M₁₀

O₃

5-Day Air Quality Index Forecast in Boston, MA

Tips to Protect Yourself from Unhealthy Air Quality in Boston, MA

Check air quality levels especially on days with high vehicle traffic or heat waves. Avoid outdoor activities during "unhealthy" AQI levels, particularly in the afternoon when ozone levels peak.

Keep windows closed and use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce indoor pollutants. Consider sealing gaps in doors and windows to prevent outdoor air infiltration, especially during pollution events like ozone alerts or haze from regional wildfires.

If you must be outside during high pollution, wear a properly fitted N95 mask to filter out particulate matter (PM2.5). Minimize time spent near busy roads and industrial areas, where pollution tends to be higher.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

When is AQI usually the worst in Boston?

The AQI in Boston is often at its worst during the summer months (June through August), when high temperatures and sunlight lead to increased ground-level ozone formation. Additionally, winter months can occasionally see elevated pollution levels due to temperature inversions, which trap emissions close to the ground.
What are common pollutants that impact AQI in Boston?

The most common pollutants affecting Boston's AQI are ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Ozone levels rise on hot, sunny days due to reactions between vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants, while PM2.5 can result from vehicle exhaust, construction, and regional factors like wood-burning or wildfire smoke.
Are there specific areas in Boston with better AQI?

Neighborhoods closer to the coast, such as South Boston or areas near Boston Harbor, tend to have better air quality due to ocean breezes that disperse pollutants. In contrast, areas near major highways or densely populated urban centers, like downtown Boston or neighborhoods close to Logan Airport, may experience higher pollution levels.