Air Quality Alert: San Diego Coast Reaches Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups Level

Current Air Quality

On March 17, 2026, the San Diego Coast reporting area in California recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 108. The primary pollutant of concern is Ozone (O3), which has reached the ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ category. Other measured pollutants include Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) with an AQI of 64 (Moderate) and Large Particulate Matter (PM10) with an AQI of 40 (Good).

What This Means

An AQI reading between 101 and 150 is classified by the EPA as ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.’ 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 ozone exposure 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 are advised to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. It is recommended to monitor symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath and to consider moving activities indoors or rescheduling them for times when air quality is better. The general public does not need to take special precautions at this level.

Source

Data provided by EPA AirNow.