Air Quality Information

Primary Pollutants of Concern

Poor air quality often affects Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, especially during summer. Ozone and particulate matter 2.5 microns and smaller (PM2.5) are the most harmful pollutants here. In summer months, ground level ozone and PM2.5 often exceed federal health standards, which are described using the Air Quality Index (AQI). The AQI was developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for air quality communications and has color-coded categories that provide health statements based on measured pollutants in a given area.

This dial represents the current condition Air Quality Index (AQI) for the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks reporting area. Also included on this air quality outlook is the pollutant that is contributing most to the AQI condition. To see the ratings for both ozone and PM 2.5, an air quality map for California, plus a two-day forecast, please visit AirNow website info for Three Rivers, California.

Understanding Air Quality Data
Please note the dial represents the worst air quality occurring at lower elevations around Ash Mountain and below 4,000 feet (1,219 meters). The dial is less accurate for forecasting localized conditions at other areas of the parks like Cedar Grove, Giant Forest, Grant Grove, Lodgepole, and Mineral King. These areas may have additional temporary sensors for ozone and PM2.5 that can be found at the image links below, or at the fire and smoke map available for the parks through https://fire.airnow.gov/.

brown national park service arrowhead on blue background — Sequoia Kings Air, @SequoiaKingsAir

In addition to this air quality rating, the parks air quality specialists may provide additional up-to-date information below via Twitter.

Looking For Respite From Poor Air Quality?

For higher elevations above 8,500 feet (2,438 meters), these areas typically retain good air quality even when lower-elevation monitors show poor air quality. Additionally, some days with poor air quality will have moments of healthier air. Daily and regional weather patterns may cause conditions to change rapidly so checking monitors for hourly pollutant patterns can help inform activities during your visit.