St. Louis' Air Pollution: A Critical Concern?

St. Louis, Missouri, has an Air Quality Index (AQI) that is generally considered good, with a score of 31 as of April 25, 2025. The air quality is deemed satisfactory, and while it is acceptable for most individuals, sensitive groups may experience symptoms from long-term exposure. The main pollutant in St. Louis is PM2.5, which currently stands at 8.1 µg/m³, 1.6 times the World Health Organization's annual guideline value. St. Louis residents can stay updated on their air quality through various apps and services, and take appropriate precautions when the AQI is less favorable.

Real-time air pollution

The air quality in St. Louis is currently good, with a real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) level of 31 as of 25 April 2025, 04:25 PM local time. The AQI level was at its best in the last 24 hours at 2:10 PM, with a reading of 28, and at its worst at 6:10 PM on 24 April, with a reading of 43—both of which are still considered "good".

The main pollutant in St. Louis is PM2.5, with a concentration that is 1.6 times the World Health Organization's annual guideline value. Despite this, the air quality is generally satisfactory, and air pollution poses little to no risk to the public. However, sensitive groups may experience minor to moderate symptoms with long-term exposure, and should limit outdoor activities when the air pollution level is high.

There are several real-time air pollution maps and applications available that provide data and information on the air quality in St. Louis. These include the AirVisual app by IQAir, which offers a 3D animated air pollution map, and the Air Quality Index Visual Map by aqicn.org, which provides real-time air pollution levels for over 100 countries. Additionally, AccuWeather offers a St. Louis, MO Air Quality Index map that presents data as soon as it is received, including current, forecast, daily, and hourly air quality information. It is important to note that all air quality data should be used as guidance only and is subject to change and fluctuation.

To actively improve the air quality in St. Louis, Prana Air offers pollution monitoring and fresh air solutions for various indoor spaces, including retail stores, shopping outlets, airports, hospitals, washrooms, and residential and commercial real estate.

Air quality solutions

The air quality in St. Louis is deemed "good" by the Air Quality Index (AQI). However, it is important to take measures to maintain and improve the air quality in the city.

One way to address air pollution in St. Louis is through the use of air quality monitoring systems and devices. Companies like Prana Air offer pollution monitoring and fresh air solutions for various spaces, including retail stores, shopping outlets, airports, construction sites, hospitals, and residential and commercial real estate. These systems can help identify areas with poor air quality and take appropriate remedial actions.

To enhance indoor air quality in St. Louis, residents can seek the services of local experts like Hoffmann Brothers, who specialize in indoor air quality systems. They offer a range of products such as humidifiers, UV lights, air cleaners, and air scrubbers to improve the air inside homes and businesses. These systems can help alleviate issues related to allergies, dust, dry skin, and airborne bacteria.

Additionally, addressing specific indoor air contaminants is crucial. For instance, mold can be a significant issue, and locating and eliminating its source is essential. Plumbing or drainage problems caused by leaks, floods, or sewage backups should be addressed by professional contractors. Residents can also take preventative measures, such as using mold-killing agents available at home improvement stores.

Furthermore, staying informed about real-time air quality data can help St. Louis residents make informed decisions. Applications like the IQAir AirVisual app provide updates on air quality, allowing users to monitor their favorite places. This information can guide individuals in taking necessary precautions, especially for those with respiratory conditions or allergies.

By combining indoor air quality systems, targeted solutions for specific contaminants, and access to real-time air quality data, St. Louis can actively work towards maintaining and improving its air quality, ensuring a healthier environment for its residents.

Air quality monitoring

One such organisation is the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, which provides an EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) colour-coded index chart that indicates the levels of health concerns regarding air pollution. This index is designed to help individuals understand the potential risks associated with the air quality in their area. Additionally, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources offers EnviroFlash, a service that sends out bulletins and notifications about air quality, including daily forecasts and action days, to keep residents informed and aware.

AccuWeather is another source of air quality information for St. Louis. While AccuWeather itself does not provide air quality data, it relies on data from Plume Labs, which is converted into values comprising the Air Quality Index (AQI). This index is based on standards and guidelines developed by the EPA and the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as other scientific studies. AccuWeather presents this information to the public with the disclaimer that it is subject to equipment limitations and fluctuations, and users should not rely on the data for any advice, including medical advice.

Other organisations, such as IQAir, also contribute to air quality monitoring in St. Louis. Through their AirVisual app and website, individuals can access real-time air pollution maps and specific station rankings for the city. Additionally, IQAir offers individuals the opportunity to purchase air quality monitors and contribute data to their platform, enhancing the accuracy of their air quality assessments.

Prana Air is yet another provider of air quality solutions in St. Louis. They offer pollution monitoring and fresh air solutions for various establishments, including retail stores, shopping outlets, airports, construction sites, hospitals, and residential and commercial real estate. By utilising drones, outdoor air purifiers, data dashboards, and other innovative technologies, Prana Air strives to improve the air quality in the city.

Overall, these air quality monitoring efforts in St. Louis enable residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, especially for sensitive groups who may be more susceptible to the effects of air pollution. By staying updated on air quality data, individuals can take necessary precautions, such as reducing outdoor activities during high pollution periods, to minimise potential health risks.

Air purification

Air pollution in St. Louis can be a cause for concern, with the city sometimes experiencing unhealthful levels of ground-level ozone pollution (smog). The air quality is generally acceptable for most individuals, but sensitive groups may experience symptoms from long-term exposure, including difficulty breathing and throat irritation.

To actively improve the air quality in St. Louis, individuals can take several measures. Using energy-efficient vehicles, carpooling, and combining errands are simple yet effective ways to collectively make a difference. For those seeking more direct ways to address air purification, there are a few steps you can follow to find the perfect air purification solution for your specific needs. Firstly, you can take an air purifier quiz to assess your requirements. Secondly, you can contact an indoor air quality expert or a solutions engineer to discuss potential options. Finally, investing in an air quality monitor can help you contribute data to improve the overall air quality in your city.

For those seeking broader solutions beyond individual actions, there are air quality solutions providers such as Prana Air, which offers pollution monitoring and fresh air solutions for various indoor spaces, including schools, retail stores, shopping outlets, airports, hospitals, and residential and commercial real estate.

Additionally, St. Louis has air quality monitoring stations and a real-time air pollution map that individuals can refer to for up-to-date information on the city's air quality. These resources can help residents make informed decisions about their outdoor activities and take any necessary precautions to protect their health.

Air quality data

In St. Louis, Missouri, there are several stations that monitor air quality data, including Muirfield Lane, Buchanan Street, and Forest Park. The real-time AQI levels in St. Louis vary, but generally fall within the good range. For example, on April 25, 2025, the real-time AQI level in St. Louis was 31 (good), with the best AQI level in the last 24 hours being 28 (good) and the worst being 43 (also considered good).

While the air quality in St. Louis is generally considered satisfactory, there may be times when sensitive groups experience symptoms from long-term exposure. It is important to note that all air quality data is subject to change and may be influenced by equipment limitations and intermittent fluctuations, resulting in inaccurate readings.

To stay updated on the air quality in St. Louis, individuals can utilize applications such as the IQAir AirVisual app, which provides real-time air pollution maps and allows users to contribute air quality data. Additionally, services like EnviroFlash provide bulletins and notifications about air quality, helping individuals make informed decisions about their outdoor activities.

Frequently asked questions