Bronte Wells
Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, is informally known as the City of Oaks for its many oak trees. The city's air quality has been a growing concern, with reports of pollution levels that are unhealthy, especially for sensitive groups. While indoor air quality is often worse than outdoor air, outdoor air pollution in cities like Raleigh can be caused by emissions from vehicles, aeroplanes, and construction. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regularly measures air quality and, as of June 2025, Raleigh's air quality has been deemed good or satisfactory, with an AQI ranging from 29 to 38. However, in 2019, Raleigh's air quality declined, with an average total of 9.8 µg/m³, exceeding the WHO target of 9.4-10 µg/m³.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air Quality Index (AQI) | 32 (Good) |
| Main Pollutants | PM2.5, PM10, NO2, O3 |
| PM2.5 Concentration | 1.2 times the World Health Organization (WHO) annual guideline value |
| Air Quality | Satisfactory, with little or no risk |
| Ozone (O3) | A large part of air pollution |
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What You'll Learn
Outdoor air pollution
In Raleigh, North Carolina, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is currently rated as ["good"32. The AQI has been fluctuating over the last 24 hours, with a low of 29 and a high of 38, both of which are still within the "good" range. The main pollutants in Raleigh's air are PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3. The annual average AQI is 29, which is higher than the maximum limit established for one year by the World Health Organization (WHO). This indicates that long-term exposure to Raleigh's air could pose health risks.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regularly measures the air quality of cities and rural areas, which has led to improvements over the last two decades. Local media and digital sources often publish the results online, so residents can keep track of air quality and plan outdoor activities safely. When the ICA is high, it is recommended to limit outdoor activities, especially for sensitive groups who may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation.
To protect their health, individuals can drink water to keep airways moist and reduce irritation, and eat non-allergenic fruits and vegetables that support lung health, such as apples, pears, and spinach. It is also advised to avoid strenuous physical activity on days with high air pollution, as breathing faster will increase the inhalation of pollutants.
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Indoor air pollution
While there is a lack of specific data on indoor air pollution in Raleigh, it is important to understand that indoor air quality can be significantly impacted by various factors, which can lead to adverse health effects.
One of the primary concerns with indoor air pollution is the potential for elevated concentrations of pollutants due to inadequate ventilation. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), for example, can be emitted from various products such as paints, solvents, and cleaning agents. If not properly ventilated, these compounds can accumulate indoors, leading to health issues such as headaches, eye irritation, and respiratory problems. Additionally, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can also be a concern, especially in homes where cooking with gas stoves or wood-burning fireplaces is common. Inhalation of fine particulate matter has been linked to adverse cardiovascular and respiratory effects.
To mitigate indoor air pollution, it is important to take preventive measures. These can include source control, which involves reducing or eliminating the use of certain products or activities that contribute to pollution. For example, switching to low-emission paints and cleaning products, avoiding smoking indoors, and using exhaust fans while cooking can help reduce the levels of pollutants. Proper ventilation and the use of air purification systems can also improve indoor air quality by removing or diluting contaminants.
Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of indoor spaces can help reduce the accumulation of dust, allergens, and other airborne particles. This includes vacuuming, dusting, and ensuring that HVAC systems are well-maintained and equipped with appropriate filters. By being mindful of potential sources of indoor air pollution and taking proactive measures, individuals can help improve the air quality in their homes and reduce the potential health risks associated with indoor air pollutants.
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Real-time air quality
The air quality in Raleigh, North Carolina, is generally good, with the air quality index (AQI) often registering within the "good" or fair range. However, there are times when the AQI dips into the moderate or "unhealthy for sensitive groups" categories.
The dominant pollutant in Raleigh's air is often PM2.5, which stands for particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less. These tiny particles can irritate the eyes, nose, and respiratory system, and prolonged exposure can aggravate heart and lung diseases. Other pollutants include PM10, NO2, and O3 (ground-level ozone or urban smog).
To improve real-time air quality monitoring and data accuracy in Raleigh, individuals can set up their own air quality stations. GAIA air quality monitors, for instance, only require a WiFi access point and a USB-compatible power supply. Real-time data from these stations can then be instantly visualised on maps, helping residents make informed decisions about their outdoor activities and health.
It's important to note that indoor air quality can be worse than outdoor air quality due to the build-up of contaminants and limited ventilation. Therefore, real-time air quality monitoring should consider both indoor and outdoor environments to get a comprehensive picture of the air we breathe.
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Annual air quality
Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US. The air quality in Raleigh has been measured by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other independent organizations.
In 2017, Raleigh attained the World Health Organization (WHO) target for air quality, with a figure of 9.4 µg/m³. However, in subsequent years, the air quality has slightly declined. In 2018, the figure was 9.8 µg/m³, and in 2019, it was 11.3 µg/m³. This decline is in line with a national trend of increasing ozone (O3) pollution levels.
Ozone is a significant component of air pollution, particularly in urban areas, where it contributes to what is known as ground-level ozone or urban smog. Ground-level ozone increases when the air is stagnant, the temperature is warm, and there is sunlight, trapping pollution in the air. Other sources of outdoor air pollution include vehicle emissions, aeroplanes, construction vehicles, tobacco smoke, and, in rural areas, dust from tractors and trucks on gravel roads.
Particle pollution, which can come from coal-fired power plants, diesel emissions, wildfires, and wood-burning devices, is another concern. These tiny particles, known as PM2.5, can lodge deep in the lungs and have been linked to triggering asthma attacks, heart attacks, and strokes, and can even be lethal.
While indoor air is often assumed to be cleaner, it can actually be three to four times worse than outdoor air due to the build-up of contaminants and inadequate ventilation.
Real-time air quality data for Raleigh is available through various sources, and as of June 19, 2025, the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels were reported as "good," ranging from 29 to 38. Sensitive groups may still experience symptoms such as throat irritation or difficulty breathing, and it is recommended to limit outdoor activity during high pollution levels.
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Health effects of air pollution
Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, has an air quality index (AQI) of 47, which is considered "fair". The main pollutants are PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3. The air quality is generally acceptable for most individuals, but sensitive groups may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation.
Air pollution is a serious issue that can have significant health effects on individuals and communities. It refers to the presence of contaminants in the atmosphere, such as dust, fumes, gases, mist, odour, smoke, or vapour, in quantities that can be harmful to human health. The main pathway of exposure is through the respiratory tract, and the health impacts can depend on the types, sources, and concentrations of pollutants.
Short-term and long-term exposure to air pollutants can lead to various health problems in both children and adults. High levels of particulate matter can cause reduced lung function, respiratory infections, and aggravated asthma. Fine particulate matter, such as PM2.5, can be inhaled deeply into the lung tissue and has been linked to serious health problems, including lung, heart, and brain issues. Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter increases the risk of noncommunicable diseases such as stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer.
Ozone (O3), a powerful lung irritant, is another common pollutant. Ground-level ozone, often referred to as smog, is created when pollutants from cars, power plants, and other sources react chemically in the presence of sunlight. Ozone exposure can cause inflammation and damage to the lining of the small airways, impacting multiple body systems and shortening lives. High ozone levels can lead to breathing problems such as chest tightness, coughing, and shortness of breath, even in healthy young adults.
Certain populations are more susceptible to the health impacts of air pollution. These include pregnant women and their fetuses, children, older adults, and people with chronic conditions, especially heart and lung disease. Low-income individuals and racial or ethnic minorities may also be at higher risk due to living in closer proximity to pollution sources and having limited access to healthcare. Additionally, psychosocial stressors, such as poverty and discrimination, can amplify the harmful effects of air pollution.
While the air quality in Raleigh is generally acceptable, it is important to be mindful of sensitive groups and to take necessary precautions on days when the pollution levels are higher.
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Frequently asked questions
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regularly measures the air quality of cities and rural areas and reports on them. The air quality data is also available on various online platforms and applications.
The air quality in Raleigh is generally considered to be "Good" or "Fair", with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score ranging from 29-47. However, the PM2.5 concentration is 1.2 times the World Health Organization's annual PM2.5 guideline value, which can irritate the eyes, nose, and respiratory system.
Raleigh's AQI score is lower than that of other cities in North Carolina, such as Durham (29), Fayetteville (42), Winston-Salem (35), and Charlotte (38).
When the air quality is poor, sensitive groups may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation. It is recommended to reduce the time spent outdoors and limit physical activity during these times.
