Air Quality Alert: Sacramento, CA Reaches Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups Level

Current Air Quality

In Sacramento, CA, the air quality index (AQI) has reached a level of 101 as of March 20, 2026. The primary pollutant of concern is Ozone (O3), which is currently in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. Other measured pollutants include Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) with an AQI of 61 (Moderate) and Particulate Matter (PM10) with an AQI of 40 (Good).

What This Means

An AQI of 101 falls into the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category. According to standard EPA guidance, this indicates that while the general public is unlikely to be affected, members of sensitive groups may experience health effects due to the concentration of ozone in the air.

Who Should Take Precautions

Groups at increased risk from this level of air pollution include:

• People with lung disease, such as asthma
• Children and teenagers
• Older adults
• People who are active outdoors

What You Should Do

Members of sensitive groups should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. It is recommended to schedule outdoor activities for the morning when ozone levels are typically lower, take more breaks, and monitor for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. The general public is not significantly affected at this AQI level.

Source

Data provided by EPA AirNow.