The highest AQ index in Arizona (as of 12:00 MST) is currently the McDowell area. Particle Pollution (PM10) is measuring at 56 (Moderate). This means air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
Over the next few days, the highest Ozone (OZONE) will be in the Phoenix area. It is forecasted to be Moderate, meaning air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
[View the ADEQ Hourly Forecast for Phoenix]
High pressure over the region continues to bring very hot temperatures. The National Weather Service has an Extreme Heat Warning in effect through Thursday. As for the air quality, ozone levels ended up in the upper Moderate range yesterday, while PM10 was in the lower Moderate range, and PM2.5 stayed in the Good range.
Looking ahead, we don't expect ozone levels to change too much. We are forecasting ozone to continue hovering around the upper Moderate range. As for PM10, it is possible we'll see some thunderstorm outflows reach into the area over the coming days, but we aren't expecting anything too significant at this time. Overall, we are keeping PM10 levels in the Moderate range through Saturday before dropping into the Good range on Sunday. Lastly, PM2.5 is forecast to stay in the Good range through the forecast period.
R. Nicoll
https://azdeq.gov/forecast/phoenix
Last Update: Wednesday, July 8, 2026, 9:02 AM
| Range | 0 - 50 | 51 - 100 | 101 - 150 | 151 - 200 | 201 - 300 | 301 - 500 |
| Color | ||||||
| Category | Good | Moderate | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups | Unhealthy | Very Unhealthy | Hazardous |
Last Updated 1 minutes ago