Air Quality Alert: Indianapolis, IN Reaches Unhealthy Levels (AQI 165)

Current Air Quality

In Indianapolis, IN, the air quality index (AQI) reached a level of 165 on March 20, 2026. The primary pollutant of concern is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is currently classified in the “Unhealthy” category. Other measured pollutants for the area include Ozone (O3) with an AQI of 31 (Good) and PM10 with an AQI of 38 (Good).

What This Means

An AQI reading of 165 is categorized as “Unhealthy” by the EPA. This means that the air quality is reaching levels where the general public may begin to experience health effects. Members of sensitive groups are likely to experience more serious health effects than the general population.

Who Should Take Precautions

While this air quality level affects everyone, certain groups are at a higher risk of experiencing adverse health effects. These sensitive groups include:

• People with heart or lung disease
• Older adults
• Children and teenagers

What You Should Do

To protect your health during this period of unhealthy air quality, the following actions are recommended:

• For the general public: Reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. Take more breaks and engage in less intense outdoor activities.
• For sensitive groups: Avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Consider moving activities indoors or rescheduling them to a time when air quality is better.
• Keep windows closed to prevent outdoor air from entering your home.

Source

Information provided by EPA AirNow.