Air Quality Index in Dallas, TX

Common pollutants that affect the air quality in Dallas include ground-level ozone (O3), which forms from vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions. Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) comes from cars, construction, and dust. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from vehicles and factories also contributes to ozone. Carbon monoxide (CO), from cars and industries, can lower air quality. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cars and factories help create ozone.What are common pollutants that impact AQI in Dallas?

Common pollutants that affect the air quality in Dallas include ground-level ozone (O3), which forms from vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions. Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) comes from cars, construction, and dust. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from vehicles and factories also contributes to ozone. Carbon monoxide (CO), from cars and industries, can lower air quality. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cars and factories help create ozone.

The air quality index in Dallas is usually the worst during the summer months, from May to September. This is when high temperatures and strong sunlight cause an increase in ground-level ozone, which is a key pollutant. The air quality can also be worse on hot, stagnant days with little wind, as pollutants stay trapped in the air. Additionally, wildfire season in late summer and fall can add more particulate matter to the air, further lowering the AQI.

Some areas in Dallas tend to have better air quality due to less traffic and more green spaces. Neighborhoods like Highland Park, University Park, and parts of East Dallas, which are farther from major highways and industrial zones, generally experience cleaner air. Areas with more parks and trees, such as White Rock Lake and the Dallas Arboretum, can also benefit from natural air filtration.