"As of Tuesday afternoon, Salt Lake City posted an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 123, placing it at the top of U.S. air pollution rankings, according to data from IQAir. While that level is categorized as "moderate" on the global scale, it still ranked Salt Lake City worst nationally and 32nd worst worldwide at the time of reporting. For comparison, Baghdad topped global rankings with an AQI exceeding 1,000."
"Meteorologists attribute the deteriorating conditions to a strong temperature inversion, where warmer air aloft traps colder, polluted air near the ground. A high-pressure system to the west has kept the inversion locked in place, preventing pollutants from dispersing. Forecasters with Fox 13 News say a weak system moving in from the north later this week could bring winds strong enough to temporarily disrupt the inversion. However, longer-term relief appears unlikely, with high pressure expected to rebuild shortly afterward."
"Extended exposure to poor air quality can carry health risks, particularly for children, older adults, and people with respiratory or heart conditions. According to IQAir, air pollution was a leading risk factor in global mortality estimates for 2021, contributing to millions of premature deaths worldwide. Local health agencies continue to urge residents to limit outdoor activity during peak pollution hours and to monitor neighborhood-level air quality readings closely."
Salt Lake City recorded an Air Quality Index of 123, the worst in the United States and 32nd worst worldwide at the time. A strong winter temperature inversion trapped colder, polluted air along the Wasatch Front while a western high-pressure system maintained the inversion and limited dispersion. A weak system later in the week could briefly disrupt the inversion, but high pressure is expected to return. Extended exposure poses health risks for children, older adults, and people with respiratory or heart conditions. Unusually warm winter temperatures and below-average snowfall have worsened a snow drought in Utah.
Read at SnowBrains
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