Explainer

Air Quality: How to use the Air Quality Index

A UK wide air quality forecast map is published daily by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra).

The Air Quality Index, or AQI, plots the predicted air pollution levels for your area on a map for today, and the next three days.

You can also search by town or postcode to see more local information.

Air Quality Index Example Credit: ITV Weather - with data from DEFRA and Met Office

 It uses a colour coded scale of 1 to 10.

Low air pollution is between 1 and 3, Moderate between 4 and 6, High is between 7 and 9, and Very High is 10 on the scale 

Air pollution levels. Credit: ITV Weather, DEFRA and Met Office

  • 1-3: Enjoy your usual outdoor activities

  • 4-6: At risk individuals consider reducing physical activity outdoors

  • 7-9: Anyone experiencing discomfort should reduce physical activity

  • 10: Everyone should avoid or reduce physical activity

You can find more information on air quality on the CleanAirHub